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®lf0 g^tar of l^tl|bl|^m 

A SACRED DRAMA 

IN FIVE ACTS 

AND 

A PRELUDE 

BY 

JOSEPH CANTELLO 




COMMERCIAL PRINTING HOUSE 
LOS ANGELES, CAL. 



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LIBRARY of CONSriESSj 
Two Copies Raceiveu 

DEC 23 l90f 

Cepyrignt tntry 
OLASSi? XXc, Nu, i 

^ o f o 
'copy b. 



Copyright, 1907, by 
JOSEPH CANTELLO 

All Stage Rights Strictly Reserved 



i FOREWORD 

It has been my purpose in this drama to present in 
a wholly reverential spirit incidents connected with the 
advent of the Messiah. I have endeavored to convey, 
as impressively as my limited powers zvoiild allow, the 
contrast between the vain shoiv of earthly greatness, as 
exemplified in the empty pomp of the court of Augustus, 
"the Master of the World," and the gorgeous, oriental 
state of Herod, Judea's great, but wicked, king, with the 
divine glory attending the seemingly humble birth of the 
Redeemer of Mankind. 

The date of our Savior's birth has never been accu- 
rately determined. The time fixed for the beginning of the 
Christian Era, in the year 532 A. D., by the monk 
Dionysius Exiginus, from which our present chronology 
is computed, namely, 753 from the foundation of Rome, 
is obviously wrong, since Herod died four years earlier. 

Many facts also militate against the commonly ac- 
cepted view that Christ was born in the last year of 
Herod's reign. The zvords of the angel to St Joseph 
(Matthezu ii:i3) : "Arise, take the young child and his 
mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I 
bring thee zvord," zvould seem to clearly imply that some 
time zvould elapse before the summons for the Holy 



6 The Star of Bethlehem 

Family to return to Palestine; as does the statement 
(Matthew ii:i4-i5): *'When he arose, he took the 
young child and his mother by night, and departed into 
Egypt ; and zvas there until the death of Herod f It does 
not seem probable that the messenger of the Most High 
should have required that the delicate woman and tender 
infant should take a journey involving months of weari- 
some travel, had the cruel tyrant already been stricken 
with mortal sickness, so some more easily accessible place 
of concealment would suffice. Moreover, it is less likely 
that the frightful atrocity of the ''Massacre of the Inno- 
cents'' should have escaped the pen of Josephus had it 
been perpetrated at the end of the cruel monarch's blood- 
stained reign rather than in a less conspicuous period of 
his life. But the fact that to my mind incontrovertibly 
establishes the correctness of the date I have selected for 
the birth of our Lord, 745 from the foundation of Rome, 
is that in this year Augustus secured from the Roman 
Senate his reappointment as Consul for the express pur- 
pose of taking a census, which accords with the statement 
(Luke ii:i) ''And it came to pass in those days that 
there zvent out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all 
the world should be taxed;" since the taking of the census 
of the empire zvould unquestionably involve the imposi- 
tion of a poll-tax. 

I, therefore, feel that I am justifiable, not only by 
historical probability, but to the Christian unimpeach- 
able authority of the Holy Scriptures, in my decision 
in this respect; and in tracing the domestic miseries, as 
ziwll as the horrible bodily sufferings, probably the most 



The Star of Bethlehem y 

excruciating physical agonies ever endured by mortal 
man, which afflicted Herod in his last days, to the crown- 
ing horror of his career of crime, the Hendish slaughter 
of the helpless babes of Bethlehem. 

For the rest, I have followed closely the traditions 
of the church, the gospel narratives, and reliable historical 
authorities in matters not of my ozvn invention. Tales of 
the prodigies recounted in Act III as having occurred at 
Rome at the time of the Savior's birth, with others, are 
still current among the Catholics of Italy. The character 
of Queen Azili is imaginary, as is the circumstance of the 
death of the infant son of Herod in the ''Massacre of the 
Innocents ;" but the curses supposedly invoked by the 
bereaved queen upon the bloody tyrant were literally ful- 
filled. 

JOSEPH CANTELLO, 

Los Angeles, Cal., November 25, 1907. 



CAST OF CHARACTERS 

Archangel. 

Caesar-Augustus, Emperor of Rome. 

Herod, King of Judea. 

Aristobulus ) rr- 

> His sons. 
Antipater j 

Joseph of Nazareth, husband of Mary. 

Maecenas ) ^ , . . 

I Counselors of Atis[ustus. 
Agrippa ) 

Jeund, a shepherd of the hills. 

Matthew, a lad, his iinder-shepherd. 

Medor, shepherd of the plains. 

Firzi, his eldest son. 

Benoni, his youngest. 

ToLLOMEo, Captain of Herod's guard. 

LuciAN, Secretary of Augustus. 

Pheon, a Greek slave, spy of Herod. 

Melchior, 1 

Caspar, V Three Wise Men of the East. 

Balthazer J 

High Priest. 

Priest of Jupiter. 

Page to Augustus. 

Page to Herod. 



10 The Star of Bethlehem 

Sarah, wife of Jelind. 

Hannah, her daughter. 

Amarilla, wife of Medor. 

Lady oi^ the^ Court of H^rod. 

Empress Livia, wife of Augustus. 

Queen Azili, wife of Herod. 

MARY, mother of Jesus. 

Angels, Messengers from the Provinces, Schoolboys, 

Lords and Ladies of the Court of Augustus and Herod, 

Doctors of the Law, Shepherds, People of Jerusalem, 

Soldiers and Servants. Spirits of Marianna, the 

murdered wife of Herod, Hyrcanus, her grandfather. 

and Aristobulus, her brother. 



SYNOPSIS OF SCENERY 

PRELUDE. 
Heavens, banked with luminous clouds, spanned by 
a rainbow. 

ACT I. 
Scene: I. — Audience Hall of palace of Emperor Caesar- 
Augustus at Rome. Morning. 
ScENK 11. — Country near Bethlehem. Late afternoon. 

ACT H. 

Sce:nE I. — Home of JeHnd, in hills beyond Bethlehem. 

Night. 
Sce^ne: n. — Exterior of the Place of the Nativity. Night. 

ACT ni. 

Audience Hall of the palace of Emperor Caesar-Augustus 
at Rome. Afternoon. 

ACT IV. 

ScKNE I. — A Street in Jerusalem. Morning. 

Scene II. — Grand Hall of the palace of Herod at Jerusa- 
lem. Later in the day. 

Scene III. — Place of the Nativity. The same night. 

Scene IV. — Anteroom of Herod's private apartments in 
his palace at Jerusalem. Midnight. 



12 The Star of Bethlehem 

ACT V. 

Scene: I. — Interior of the Place of the Nativity. Same 

night as in Act. IV. 
Scene II. — Garden and park of Herod's palace at Hero- 

dium. Late in the afternoon of the following day. 



PRELUDE 



The Star of Bethlehem 



A hank of luminous clouds, completely spanned by a rain- 
bow, with a background of blue sky. Upon the arch 
of the bow are standing fifteen angels. Seven on each 
side are clad in flowing robes, matching the colors 
of the bow, with gauzy wings to correspond, and 
starry wreaths. In the center is stationed an arch- 
angel, clad in purest white, with white wings. He, 
also zvears a starry wreath. All the angels hold 
golden harps or dulcimers in their hands, except the 
archangel, who has a long, golden trumpet. The 
orchestra plays a fanfare as the curtain rises, when 
the archangel lowers his trumpet, and angels sing. 

Chorus o^ Ange:ls. 
Glory be to God in the highest! 
On earth peace, to men good will. 
Glory! Glory! Glory! 
Glory in the highest! 
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, 
And to the Holy Ghost! 
Amen! 



i6 The Star of Bethlehem 

[Archangel Sings.] 
Song. 
Lo, tidings of great joy we bring 

To men this happy morn. 
Let heaven and earth with rapture ring, 
The Prince of Peace is horn. 

He comes the hound to liberate, 
To set the captives free; 

The poor to hid zvifh hearts elate 
The dazvn of gladness see. 

He comes to sinners free from shame, 
To wounded hearts allay; 

And unto all the world proclaim 
The Lord's accepted day. 

Chorus of Angkls. 



ACT I. 



! 



SCENE I. 

Audience Hall of the Palace of Empe^ror Cae:sar-Augus- 
Tus at Rome. On either side are massive, square, 
marble pillars, and in the rear is a colonnade of the 
same, with a great open portal, center, beyond zvhich 
is a broad corridor. Left front, is a dais, on which 
are tzvo antique chairs for the Emperor and Empress. 
Beside the Emperor's chair tozvards the front, is a 
small, antique stand. Around the walls are arranged 
pedestals, supporting bronze braziers, in which tires 
are burning in honor of the gods. There are closed 
bronze doors right and left. The floor is paved ivith 
variegated marbles. 

To the music of a triumphal march the imperial court 
enters through corridor, filing in left, preceded by a 
guard of twelve soldiers, tzvo of whom station them- 
selves on either side of the portal, while the others 
form in line along the corridor back. A page slips 
in, and stations himself next to soldier, right of por- 
tal. Lastly, appear the Emperor Augustus and the 
Empress Livia, the former attended by his counsel- 
ors, Maecenas and Agrippa, and his secretary, Lu- 
ciAN, and the latter by her ladies of honor, tzvo of 
zvhom carry her train. The remainder of the court 
range themselves on the right of the hall, zvhile Mae- 



20 The Star of Bethlehem 

CE^NAS, Agrippa and Lucian take their places, left 
front, beside the Emperor's chair, and the ladies of 
honor to the right of the Empress back. 
Augustus is over sixty years of age, but still vigorous 
and active in mind and body; and his face still bears 
traces of the classic beauty which was his in youth. 
He wears a purple toga, richly embroidered with gold, 
and his head is crowned with a wreath of gold laurels. 
The Empress Livia is still in the prime of life, and 
is a woman of rare loveliness. She is arrayed in a 
gorgeous court costume, with a long, gold-embroid- 
ered purple mantle, and jewelled tiara. The men of 
the court wear togas, and the ladies ceremonial robes. 
Maecenas and Agrippa are clad in the pure white 
togas zvorn by Roman senators. The page zvears a 
simple Greek tunic, and Lucian the same, with a 
short blue cloak, and ink-horn attached to his girdle. 

All the Court. 
[In chorus, as the Emperor and Empress ascend dais.'\ 

All hail, Augustus! All hail, Augusta! 
[The Emperor and Empress bow in acknowledgment of 
the salute, and seat themselves.'] 

Augustus. 
Admit the messengers. 
[Page opens door right, and admits seven messengers, 
who advance, one by one, to foot of dais, kneel, and 
presents rolls of papyrus. Augustus receives each 
roll with a gracious nod of the head, and lays it on 
stand.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 21 

First Mkss^ng^r. 
From the Pro-Consul of Gaul, O Caesar. 

Second Messenger. 
From the Pro-Consul of Egypt, O Csesar. 

Third Messenger. 
From the Pro-Consul of Carthage, O Caesar. 

Fourth Messenger. 
From the Pro-Consul of Spain, O Caesar. 

Fifth Messenger. 
From Varus, Commander of the Legions in Germany, 
O Caesar. 

Sixth Messenger. 
From Quintillus, Commander of the Legions in Britain, 
O Caesar. 

Seventh Messenger. 

From Herod, King of Judea, O Caesar. 
Augustus. 

'Tis well. Now the petitions from the people. 
{Page brings in basket filled with rolls of papyrus.] 

All petitions from my people, patrician or plebeian, Ro- 
man or foreign, shall receive my prompt attention. 
[Rises and turns to Secretary.] Take these and them 
to thy study, Lucian. [Indicates by gestures rolls on 
stand and in basket.] I will see thee in my closet later. 

Lucian. 

Thy will is mine, O Caesar. 
[Lucian picks up rolls on stand, and exits, center, after 



22 The Star of Betklehem 

beckoning to page, who takes up basket and follows 
him. Augustus turns to the Empri^ss.] 

Augustus. 
Do thou, my dear Livia, entertain our court, and the 
strangers from afar, in our gardens, while I consult with 
my faithful counselors, the noble Maecenas and Agrippa. 

EmprivSS Livia. 
[Rising and bozving.] 
I obey, my lord. 

All the: Court. 
[in chorus.] 
All hail, Augustus ! All hail, Augusta ! 
[The entire court, zvith the exception of Mae:ce:nas and 
Agrippa, Hie out, the Empress and her ladies last.] 

Augustus. 

[to Mai:cenas.] 

Has my edict commanding the inhabitants of all lands 

in the Roman dominions to repair to the place of the 

family origin, that all should be registered for taxation, 

been duly promulgated? 

Mae:ce:nas. 
[bozmng.] 
It hath. Illustrious. Thine order was promptly obeyed, 
and thy will is now known to all subjects of Rome, even 
to the most remote boundaries of the empire. 

Augustus. 
'Tis well. I know I can always depend upon the zeal 
of thyself and the noble Agrippa. 



The Star of Bethlehem 23 

Maece:nas and Agrippa. 
\together\ 

It is ever our pleasure to carry out thy commands, O 
Caesar. 

Augustus. 
yboimng.^ 

Thanks, trusty friends. I pray you Hsten to my new 

edict. 

[Augustus advances to center, and takes roll of papyrus 
from the bosom of his toga. MakcKnas and Agrippa 
station themselves on either side of him. Unfastens 
roll and reads.] 

More than seven centuries have lapsed since Rome was 
founded, and seldom has she enjoyed the blessings of 
peace. Only twice in her whole history previous to our 
time have been closed the portals of the temple of Janus, 
her double-faced God of War : once, for a year after its 
erection by the benign Numa Pompilius, and for a like 
period at the close of the first war with Carthage, under 
the consulship of Manlius Tarquaus. The very founda- 
tion-stones of Rome were cemented in blood; for ere its 
walls had been reared by the wolf-nourished, twin 
brothers, Romulus and Remus, they quarreled over the 
name of the city, and the former slew the latter. Then 
the bold Romans, exclusively men, seized the women of 
their neighbors, the Sabines, who took up arms to rescue 
their stolen wives, and dishonored daughters. But the 
Sabine women interceded for peace, and the contending 
hosts became as brothers. As the young nation grew and 



24 The Star of Bethlehem 

prospered, so narrow became the boundaries within the 
walls that a citizen could not leave his door without tread- 
ing upon his neighbor's soil. Therefore, her brave sons 
were forced to cut their way out, and win lands for them- 
selves with their blood. Thus was Rome even in infancy 
compelled to draw the sword ; but victory then, as almost 
invariably since, perched upon her banners, and repeat- 
edly was the new city decorated with palms of triumph. 
Returning victorious from their conquests, scarcely had 
her valiant warriors laid down their arms, when they were 
obliged to take them up against their own sovereign, Tar- 
quinius, the Superb, who had not only slain senators, but 
violated Lucretia, an estimable Roman matron, and com- 
pelled the noble Virginius to slay with his own hands his 
only daughter, the fair Virginia, to save her from dis- 
honor. Tarquinius, the last to wear the Latin crown, 
having been driven into exile with all his progeny, for two 
hundred and forty-four years Rome enjoyed liberty under 
the rule of the consuls ; but they were years of constant 
conflict. First came the subjugation of Italy, then the 
long struggle with Carthage, followed by a series of civil 
wars, including the Agrarian uprising under the Gracci, 
and fierce contest between the Plebeians and Patricians 
under Marius and Sulla, culminating in the treachery of 
the Senate, that forced my illustrious uncle, the immortal 
Julius, who after conquering all Gaul, had led his victor- 
ious legions into the land of the Germans, and the cliff- 
lined isle of Britain, to invade Italy in order to maintain 
his rights, and restore tranquility to the Roman state. 
When, this accomplished, he was foully assassinated in 



The Star of Bethlehem 2^ 

the Senate-chamber, and I, with the aid of Antony, had 
avenged his death, I was myself compelled to wage war 
against my unfaithful ally, and his paramour, Cleopatra, 
to wipe out the insult to his wife, my fair sister, Octavia, 
whom he had basely deserted for that dissolute queen. 
Having overcome this guilty pair, and stamped out re- 
bellion in our dominions, I thereupon ordered closed the 
portals of the temples of Janus. But revolt broke out 
in our Eastern provinces, and yet once again was I forced 
to draw the sword. Now, having crushed out every spark 
of sedition, I have once more closed the doors of the 
temple of the God of War; and pray that peace, like a 
balmy, summer breeze, may waft unto all lands owning 
the Roman sway, prosperity and felicity to all loyal sub- 
jects. 

Mae:cenas. 

Truly, Illustrious, in Latin soil hath too luxuriantly 
flourished the gloomy cypress, even though by its side 
ever spring victorious palms, and triumphant laurels. We 
Romans cannot but rejoice that under thy benign rule we 
may spend our days in the shade of the olive of peace. 
But surely thou wouldst not have us forget that Rome 
would not be the great power she is, did not her sons 
callous their hands by the use of the sword, gray their 
hair under the helmet, and decorate with glorious wounds 
their dauntless breasts? 

Augustus. 
Nay, Maecenas! 

Agrippa. 
Forsooth, O Caesar, peace is a great boon to mankind. 



26 The Star of Bethlehem 

but too often it brings enervation. Therefore, I would 
counsel that the present state of military inactivity should 
only be sufficiently prolonged to afford our gallant war- 
riors a needed rest, and enable the people to recuperate 
their depleted resources. Occasion for war cannot fail to 
arise. For the barbarians upon our borders will be prone 
to mistake magnanimity for weakness ; and in so vast an 
empire as that of Rome, comprising many diverse races 
and nations, jealousies, bickerings, and disloyal conspira- 
cies, are bound to create disturbances, that must be crushed 
with an iron hand. 

Augustus. 
Thou speakest like a true soldier, Agrippa; but thou 
mistakest my purpose. The peace I would establish is 
not that which will encourage vicious habits, and rob our 
Roman youth of virile power. Enervating luxury and 
debauchery shall be sternly suppressed, the new defenders 
of the state shall be trained from early adolescence in all 
warlike exercises by such true and tried veterans as thy- 
self, and Rome shall always in the midst of peace be 
fully prepared for war. 

Agrippa. 
I stand rebuked, O Caesar, for my presumption in deem- 
ing that I could enlighten thy wisdom. 

Augustus. 
Nay, noble Agrippa, thy advice had been welcome had 
the same consideration not already dawned upon my mind. 
What say ye to the diction of my proclamation, good 
friends ? 



The Star of BethUhem 27 

Mae:ce:nas. 
Verily the gods inspired thy utterances, Illustrious. 
Thy words should be inscribed on tablets of gold, and be- 
queathed to posterity as a precious heritage. 
Agrippa. 
Surely, O C^sar, none born of woman can be greater 
than thou, or give voice to sayings that shall be so in- 
delibly engraven upon the memories of men. 

Augustus. 
\smiling.\ 
Flatterers ! 



SCENE II. 

A country landscape. Hills, covered with olive-groves 
and vineyards, among which a road zvinds. Glimpse 
of the town of Bethlehem in the background, right. 
Slightly right of center, is a low hillock, surmounted 
by a large palm tree. Yellow light of late afternoon 
pervades the scene. 

Enter Jose:ph, left, leading laden donkey on which Mary 
is seated, her form enveloped in a long blue mantle, 
with hood. Joseph wears a plain brozvn robe, with 
leather girdle to zvhich money-pouch is attached. 

Joseph. 
How pained am I at the sight of thy weariness, my dear 
Mary. This hath indeed been a hard journey for thee, 
in thy state, and in this inclement season. 



28 The Star of Bethlehem 

Mary. 
And thou, beloved Joseph, I perceive art dreadfully 
tired. But Divine Providence hath decreed that v;^e should 
suffer, and we must not repine. We are almost at our 
journey's end; for yonder is the town of Bethlehem, and 
the Lord, who hath sustained us thus far, will give us 
strength to endure to the end. 

Joseph. 
Yea, Mary, I know that Jehovah ordains all things for 
the best, and am resigned to His will. But let me help 
thee to dismount; and do thou rest here, while I go unto 
the town, and engage lodgings for the night. It may re- 
quire a considerable search, for I am told the place is 
crowded. 

Mary. 
As thou wilt, dear husband. But I pray thee to hasten 
thy return, since night draweth nigh. 
[Joseph helps her to alight, and she seats herself on 
knoll at foot of palm tree. Exit Joseph right.] 
Mine eyes are heavy with sleep. I will repose here 
awhile during Joseph's absence. O God, my Father! I 
know naught can befall me except by Thy will. Into Thy 
hands I commend my spirit. 

[She sleeps. Angels sing without, the sound seeming to 
issue from the air above her.] 

Chorus of Angels. 
Hail Mary, full of grace! 

The Lord is zvith thee. 
Blessed art thou among women. 



The Star of Bethlehem 2g 

[At {he close of chorus there is a brief pause, and Mary 

awakes.] 

Mary. 
[Arising, crossing hands upon her breast, and raising 

eyes.] 
My soul what hast thou heard ? The hour for the ful- 
fillment of the holy mystery, foretold to me by the angel 
in the garden is at hand. The Lord of Life is about to des- 
cend from Heaven, and take human form through me, the 
humblest of His handmaids. Almighty God, how can I 
thank Thee for choosing me as the mother of Thy blessed 
Son ! May mine eyes be prepared to behold the dawn of 
the light of heaven on a sin-cursed world ; and mine ears 
opened to hear the divine utterances of the long-expected 
Messiah. Holy Ghost, my spiritual spouse, inspire my 
soul that I may be worthy of this transcendent honor. 
But, O, my Divine Son, where shall I find shelter for 
Thee ? In what cradle shall I lay Thy infant form ? No, 
my faith shall not falter. I am the handmaid of Jehovah 
who will provide all things needful for him and me. 
{Glances down the road, right.] Some one approaches. 
It may be a lawless man. I will conceal myself. 
[She slips behind palm-tree. Enter Jelind, right, wearing 

sheepskin coat, leggings, and cap, and carrying bundle 

suspended on shepherd's crook swung over his 

shoulder. 

Jelind. 
[Muttering to himself as he enters.] 
That Emperor Augustus must be crazy ! [Advances to 
center, puts down bundle and sits down upon it.] 



JO The Star of Bethlehem 

Wherefore made he us poor folks from all over the 
country go unto Bethlehem to be registered and taxed, 
I'd like to know? Methinks his tax collectors could easily 
have found all of us at our homes. Not but what it's 
bad enough to be taxed one place or another. They say 
he wanted to find out how many people there were in the 
world. To think of that! What business is it of his? 
But, besides, he wanted us all to pay him a tribute. Ah, 
that's the gist of the whole matter ! Emperors, kings and 
all other kinds of rulers, are always up to that trick. It's 
easy for them to say, tax here, and tax there ; but precious 
hard is it for the poor to pay. And wherefore take they 
our hard-earned pennies? Verily, but to pile up gold of 
which they can make no real use. \Rises.\ Me- 
thinks the great folk are all half-cracked, anyway. 
Herod is always doing the craziest things, for all he is 
called the Great ; and it seemeth this wonderful Augustus- 
Caesar isn't much better. Like the pulling of teeth was 
it for me to sell that good, fat sheep to pay his tribute. 
But it was a case of needs must ; for had I not gone and 
paid, his officers would have been down upon me in no 
time, and cleaned out the house. No matter, I registered, 
I paid. I am a loyal subject, and an honest citizen. Let 
it go at that. {Picks up bundle.^ I must be trudging 
on homeward. [Takes a fezv steps, looks back over left 
shoulder and sees Mary.] There is a woman hiding be- 
hind that palm tree. I wonder wherefore doth she that? 
Verily, must she be afraid of me. [Laughs.] Mayhap 
she hath lost her way? I'll find out. Come forth, O 
woman ! I will hurt thee not, I'm an honest man. 



The Star of Bethlehem ji 

{Mary steps from behind tree. Jelind stares at her in 
open-month admiration.] 

Mary. 
Peace be unto thee, friend. 

Je:lind. 
[Making a lozv, awkward obeisance.] 
Peace be unto thee, gracious lady. My stars, but thou 
art beautiful! Whence comest thou? 

Mary. 
[Coming forward, center.] 
I came from Nazareth, with my husband. He hath gone 
unto Bethlehem to engage us lodgings for the night, and 
I await his return here. 

Jelind. 
A good time he'll have finding them, I promise thee. 
People there are packed together like pressed figs, the 
place is so crowded. [Glances out, right.] Behold a man 
approacheth by the road yonder. Perchance that is thy 
husband ? 

[Enter Joseph, right.] 

Mary. 
[Turning to Joseph] 
What was the result of thy search, my dear Joseph? 
Surely thou wast able to find some kind of shelter for the 
night ? 

Joseph. 
[Shaking his head sadly] 
Nay, dearest Mary, we are in God's hands. I sought 
diligently, but could find no place for us to lay our heads. 



32 The Star of Bethlehem 

Mary. 
[Clasping her hands.'] 
Alas! Alas! [Weeps.] 

JOSEiPH. 

[Throwing his arms about her shoulders, and drazving her 
head down upon his breast.] 
Be comforted, dear Mary. Jehovah hath us in His 
keeping, as thou hast always said. Let us put our trust 
in Him. 

Jklind. 

[Aside.] 

Verily, that lady hath the face of an angel. I could 

kneel before her. Mayhap I can think of a plan to help 

her and her noble-looking husband out of their fix. I'll 

speak to them. 

Mary. 
[Lifting her head from Jose:ph's shoulders, taking hand- 
kerchief from her bosom, and wiping her eyes,] 
Yea, Joseph. My faith did but fail me for the instant. 
The Lord is our refuge. He will protect us, now and 
ever. 

Je:lind. 
[Taking a step tozvards them, and making a low obei- 
sance.] 
Peace be unto thee, good Rabbi. 

Jose:ph. 
Peace be unto thee, friend. But call me not, "Good 
Rabbi." Goodness pertains only to God. And no rabbi 
am I, but only a simple carpenter of Nazareth. 



The Star of Bethlehem jj 

Je:lind. 

[Staring at him in blank amazement.'] 
A carpenter? A workingman? And thou the hus- 
band of the loveHest woman in the whole world? How 
can that be? 

Jose:ph. 
By God's great grace, my friend. 

Jklind. 
[Gazing at him intently.'] 
But surely thou art .of some high family ? 

Jose:ph. 
[With an air of regal dignity.] 
Yea, friend. I am of the house of David. 

Jelind. 
[Excitedly.] 
I knew it! I knew it! Thou art a king by right, 
though thou hast no throne. It seemeth kings, like other 
folk, get not always their dues. But think me not im- 
pertinent, if I ask art thou not one of those who cometh 
to Bethlehem to register, and be taxed, in obedience to 
the order of the great emperor? 

Joseph. 
Even so, friend. 

Jelind. 
And as I was telling thy most beautiful and gracious 
lady but now, thou couldst find no place of shelter there ? 

Joseph. 
None. 



34 The Star of Bethlehem 

Jelind. 

Yea, verily. I went unto the town last night; and so 
great was the multitude gathered there that the time of 
my life had I in finding a place to rest my weary bones. 
I sought the inn, and all the other houses of entertain- 
ment ; but the landlords drove me away like a dog. Had 
I been rich, they would have been more polite, though 
that would not have found me lodging where none was 
to be had. One made a great favor of giving me a stoop 
of wine, half water, and then had I to pay double. That 
is the way of the world. \Surveys Jose:ph's clothing 
critically.] A poor man, in working clothes, even though 
he be a son of David, will be treated with scant ceremony 
these times. Even ye shall see it, my noble friends, even 
ye shall see it. 

Joseph. 

But surely some shelter can be found in the town, in 
a private house, or the synagogue, a corner at least for 
my poor wife? 

Jelind. 

Alas, no ! There is no chance of it. People have been 
flocking thither all day; and last night they were packed 
like eggs in a basket, in the Synagogue, the public square, 
and the streets. There wasn't an inch of room to spare, 
no matter which way you turned. And many a man was 
given such a jab, that he went down, and was half 
trampled to death by the crowd. I myself spent the night 
in the porch of the Synagogue ; but I had to fight for my 
place. At such a time as this, it is every man for him- 
self I can tell thee. 



The Star oj Bethlehem J5 

JOSE^PH. 

What are we to do? 

JELIND. 
[Scratching his head thoughtfully.'] 
Let me see. Some way there must be of getting thee out 
of this fix. I would my home were nearer. Thou wouldst 
be most welcome there ; and my good wife, Sarah, and my 
daughter, Hannah, would be delighted to minister unto 
thy gracious lady. But it is much too far away. It 
would not be possible for the lady to stand so long a 
journey. And night is coming on. 

[Lights are slozuly lozuered.] 
Mary. 
Think thou not we could find in the town a shed, or 
even a stable, in which I could spend the night? 

Jelind. 
[Shaking his head emphatically.] 
Nay, sweet lady. If such a place were to be found, it 
would be sure to be frequented by rough men, whose 
language would shock thee, even if they did not have the 
presumption to actually offer thee insult. [Claps hands to 
his head.] A stable! Ah, I have it! There is in yonder 
hill [points out right,] a cave some one once made into 
a stable, but which hath been long disused. It is a poor 
place enough, but weather-tight, and sheltered from the 
wind. Often have I folded my flocks there, when they 
have strayed hither on cold, winter nights, and found it 
verv comfortable. 



j6 The Star of Bethlehem 

Mary. 
Verily, the Lord hath sent thee to our dehverance, kind 
shepherd. Come, Joseph, we will seek this refuge Je- 
hovah hath provided for us, as soon as thou hast re- 
warded this poor man for his service. 

JOSE^PH. 

Yea, Mary. How shall we discover this place of which 
thou speakest, friend? 

JeIvIND. 

Nothing could be easier. Follow the high-road until 
thou comest to a place where two roads join it, and take 
the right. Then descend to the plain by the trail to the 
left, and thou shalt see it. 

Joseph. 
It is far, then? 

Jelind. 
Nay, not more than two good throws from where the 
trail branches off, which is scarce a quarter of a mile from 
the turn in the highway yonder, where the roads meet. 
\Points out right.] 
Joseph. 
Thanks, friend. [Takes coin from pouch attached to 
his girdle, and extends it to Jelind.] Take this piece of 
silver as small payment for thy kindness. 

Jelind. 
[Drawing back, zvith a gesture of refusal.] 
Nay, noble Master Joseph. Thou seest I must give 
thee some title. I am a poor man, but I would not have 



The Star of Bethlehem 37 

thee pay me for the small help I give thee and thy most 
lovely lady gladly. But sufifer me to kiss thy hand. 

Joseph. 
[Putting money back in pouch.'] 

Then, the Lord reward thee. 
[Joseph extends hand, while Jelind drops to one knee 
and kisses it fervently. As the latter rises, Mary 
also extends hers, but he draws back.] 

Jelind. 
Nay, divinely beautiful lady, thou art too far above me, 
for me to even touch the hem of thy garment. Thy face 
shineth like unto some glorious star. Surely the spirit 
of the Lord is upon thee. 

Mary. 
Thou makest me blush with thy praises, friend. But 
verily the Most High hath favored me, His handmaid, 
in a way thou knowest not of. His peace be unto thee, 
and unto thy household. 

JeIvInd. 
[With a deep obeisance.] 
And unto thee and thine, most gracious lady. 
[jEiviND walks backward reverently to left, i, and exits.] 
Joseph. 
Verily, from the simple ones of earth Jehovah hath 
perfected praise. ''Blessed is the man that feareth the 
Lord." Now, Mary, let us seek our humble shelter. I 
have tethered our beast yonder, that thou mayest ride 
thither. 



jS The Star of Bethlehem 

Mary. 
Yea, Joseph. How wonderful are the ways of the 
Lord, our God! Behold how He raised up for us this 
humble friend in our hour of direful need. Blessed is 
the name of the Lord. 

[They zvalk slozvly towards right. Rosy gleam, as of 
after gloiv, illuminates the scene.] 



ACT IL 



4-2 The Star of Bethlehem 

in the door, I wonder what hath kept the folks up so 
late? 

\He puts dozvii bundle, approaclies cottage, hears voices 
within, and puts ear to chink in door. After listen- 
ing a moment, he straightens himself, and retreats 
a step or two. 
They speak of a beautiful young man. What mean 
they? [Scratches head thought fully.'] Perchance some 
gay, young spark would fain woo my sweet child, Hannah. 
An that be so, I'll soon put a stop to such folly. When 
she be old enough I shall betroth her to Matthew, who 
is an honest lad, and the best hand I ever had with the 
sheep. [Pounds forcibly on door zvith Ust.] 

Matthe^w. 
[within.] 
Who art thou that disturbest us at this hour? 

Jelind. 
[impaitently.] 
Who? Why, I, Jelind, thy master. Who else? 

Matthew. 
[angrily.] 
Go thou about thy business. My master is in Bethle- 
hem. Thou art that same roystering fellow who last 
night did hammer on our door; and when I didst open 
took to thy heels. An had I not a woman and a damsel 
to protect, I would e'en issue forth and give thee a sound 
drubbing. 

Je:lind. 
[Furiously, pounding again on door.] 



The Star of BethUhem /f.^ 

Open ! Open ! I, Jelind, command thee ! 
Sarah. 

It is he ! That is my husband's voice ! Open quickly. 

\The door is thrown violently open; and Matthew, 

Sarah, and Hannah, all rush out together. Jklind 

backs away tozvard center, as if fearful they had lost 

their senses.^ 

Matthe^w. 
Wonderful, master, wonderful! 

Sarah. 
Marvelous ! 

Hannah. 
Oh, Father, such a sight as we have seen ! 

Jelind. 
[impatiently,'] 
Then tell it me, and speak not all at once. 

Sarah. 
Do thou tell it, Hannah. 

Matthe^w. 
Yea, Hannah, thou canst relate it best. Thou seest 
the wonder first. 

Hannah. 

Lo, Father, scarce an hour since, as I was milking the 

goats in the stable, while Matthew was folding the sheep, 

there suddenly shone round about me a light brighter 

than the sun at noonday. Then straightway appeared 



/^ The Star of Bethlehem 

in the midst of it, the doors being shut, a form like unto 
a young man, clad in shining, white raiment, whose face 
was fair as the dawn-light upon the mountains. There- 
upon, came in mother and Matthew; and the beautiful 
youth spake unto us, in tones sweeter than the most beau- 
tiful music, saying ''This night is the Messiah born at 
Bethlehem. Go ye thither, and adore Him. Ye will find 
Him laid in a manger." And he vanished from our sight. 
Surely he was an angel of the Lord. 

Je:lind. 

Yea, verily. Yet wherefore an angel should be sent 
to poor, simple shepherd-folk in sooth I know not. 
\Assumes an air of deep reverence.] But, verily, the 
ways of Jehovah are beyond comprehension of men. 
[He takes off his hat as he menntions the sacred name. 
Matthe^w also takes off hat, and all bow.] 

Sarah. 

Already had we made preparations to go and seek the 
Holy Babe, expecting thee not home until the morrow. 
But now that thou art here, thou must needs sup, and take 
thy rest; and early in the morning will we go forth, and 
find Him. 

Je:lind. 

Nay, I will but eat some bread and cheese, and drink 
a draught of milk, then shall we start. Yet whither shall 
we seek the Blessed One. In Bethlehem is such confusion 
that naught will we learn there. [Claps hands to head.] 
Ah, a great light dawneth upon me! Thou sayest, 



The Star of Bethlehem ^5 

Hannah, that the angel said the child will be found laid 
in a manger? 

Hannah. 
Yea, Father. 

Jklind. 
Ah, it is so ! Know ye that I, also, have seen an angel, 
but in the form of a woman. 

Matthkw, Sarah and Hannah. 
{together.^ 
A woman? 

Je:lind. 
Yea, a most beautiful and gracious lady. 

Matthew. 
But the rabbins tell us the Scriptures speak naught of 
women angels? 

JELIND. 

Yea, so do they. But, nevertheless, upon this lady 
rested the spirit of the Most High. Listen. \He sits 
down on bundle, center, Sarah and Hannah sit Oriental 
fashion on his left, and Matthew throzvs himself on 
ground to his right.] When on the evening of yesterday 
I came unto Bethlehem ; and had sold the fat sheep I led 
thither for money to pay the foolish tax of the great 
emperor Augustus — and much did it grieve me to do so — 
I sought a place to lodge. But, lo, so great was the multi- 
tude there, that not even a shed could I find wherein to 
lay me. Therefore, was I forced to seek shelter in the 
porch of the synagogue, where after much tribulation. 



4-6 The Star cf Bethlehem 

found I a corner to rest in. When morning was come, I 
hastened to buy the things needful, and repaired to the 
office of the tax collector, that I might be registered, and 
pay the tribute ; for I had no mind to spend another night 
gasping like a fish out of water, jostled and knocked 
about by a rough crowd. But so long was the line of 
people before me, that it was nigh unto sunset ere my 
business was accomplished. 

Sarah. 
Then thou paidst the tax? 

Je:lind. 
Yea, I paid. I needs must, or fare the worst, like many 
another. But the Lord rebuke all emperors and kings 
with their burdensome taxes on the poor, say I. And, 
lo, it befell, as I journeyed homeward, nigh unto the 
town came I upon the beautiful lady whereof I spake. 
She was seated under a palm tree, and not in the whole 
world could there be another like unto her. Her face was 
pale, yet shone it with a glorious light, even as the mild, 
soft beams of yonder beautiful star. {Points to star in 
sky.] I spake unto her, for methought perchance she 
had missed her way, and needed guidance. She answered 
most graciously, and told me she was come from Nazareth 
with her husband, who had gone unto Bethlehem to seek 
lodgings. Thereupon, returned he from thence, having 
sought shelter in vain at the inn, and elsewhere ; upon 
hearing which I didst direct them to the disused stable, 
where thou rememberest, Matthew, we were wont at 
times to fold our sheep on winter nights? 



The Star of BetJilehcm ^j 

Matthew. 
[nodding his head emphatically.] 
Yea, Master, well remember I the place. 

Sarah. 
Who were these people? 

Ji:uND. 
Of the lady learned I naught save what I already told 
ye. But her husband saith he was Joseph, a carpenter 
of Nazareth, though of the house of David, the great 
king; and verily would I have known that he came of 
some high race without the telling, for though clad in 
the garb of a workingman, he looked more royal than 
ever Herod did in all his splendid raiment. 

Hannah. 
But what of the lady, Father? Surely thou hast more 
in thy mind concerning her? 

Je:lind. 
Yea, verily, it is she that is the mother of the Messiah ; 
for as thou sayest, the angel told thee the child is laid in 
the manger, and, lo, in the old stable wherein she found 
refuge is a niche hollowed from the rock from which 
beasts were wont to feed. 

Matthew. 
[nodding his head.] 
Yea, so there is, often have I seen it. 

Jelind. 
Therefore let us arise, and go forth to seek the young 



/J.8 The Star of Bethlehem 

child and his mother there. \All rise.^ Had the place 
been another surely had the angel of the Lord directed 
us hither. Do thou, Sarah, gather together such things 
needful as we possess, that we may. minister unto Him 
whom Jehovah hath sent to be the hope of Israel and the 
world, and His blessed mother. 

Sarah. 
It shall be as thou sayest, husband. But thinkest thou 
not it were better that Hannah remained at home ? Hours 
since she should have been in her bed. 

jElvIND. 

Yea, daughter, thou hadst better stay here; or if thou 
fearest to abide alone in the house, thou mayest await 
our return at the home of our neighbor below in the 
valley. 

Hannah. 
[clasping her hands in fervent entreaty.'] 
Oh, Father! Oh, Mother! Forbid me not to go with 
ye. Not for all the gold in the world would I miss greet- 
ing the Holy Babe. 

Jklind. 
But bethink thee, child? The way is long, and the 
hillpaths are rough. It will be a hard jaunt. Another 
time will thy mother take thee thither. [Pats her head 
affectionately.] 

Hannah. 
Nay, Father, I. am strong, and can well bear the 
journey. And hast thou forgotten that it was unto me 



The Star of Bethlehem ^g 

the angel of the Lord first appeared, and to me chiefly 
that he spake? 

Jklind. 
\h owing his head reverently.] 
Ah, so was it! Verily we must not disobey the com- 
mands of Jehovah expressed through His blessed mess- 
enger. Come thou with us. 

[ Jelind takes up bundle, and exits into the house. Others 
follow.'] 

Dark Change. 

Before stage is lighted, angel chorus is heard, preluded by 
a great burst of music, and dies azvay as scene opens. 

Chorus op Ange:ls. 
Glory be to God in the highest! 
On earth peace! Good zvill to men! 

Glory! Glory! Glory! 

Glory in the highest!'' 



SCENE 11. 

The place of the Nativity. Night. Background same as 
in previous scene, right back, set diagonally, a 
cavern in a rocky hill walled up in front zvith rough 
masonry. Practical door of rough planks in its 
center, and small, square openings on each side of this 
for zvindozvs. Latticed aperture in top of door, 
through zvhich light streams across stage. Left, a 
slanting trail, bordered by great rocks, ascends 



50 The Star of Bethlehem 

abruptly. As chorus of angels dies away, Joseph 
opens door of cavern, enters, and advances to front 
center. 

Joseph. 
[Crossing hands on breast and gazing heavenward.^ 
'Teace on earth," proclaim the harbingers of the Most 
High, and, verily, nature respondeth to the Lord's be- 
hest. How beautiful is the night. All earth lies wrapt 
in holy calm, and breathes forth the spirit of adoration; 
while the air yet throbs with the beat of angels' wings, 
and exhales the sweet odors of their presence. O, Al- 
mighty Jehovah, I thank Thee that Thou hast bestowed 
upon me the guardianship of Thy blessed Son. Enlighten 
my understanding, that I may faithfully discharge Thy 
sacred trust. And may mankind be prepared to accept 
the divine message of Him who cometh in the name of 
the Lord. 

Mary. 
[within, calling faintly.'] 
Joseph ! Joseph ! 

Joseph. 
Yea, Mary, I come. 

[He hastily re-enters cavern, and closes door.] 

Jelind. 
[Speaking, without, left, as if at top of trail.] 
This is the place. Well I knew I could not miss the 
way even on so dark a night. 

Sarah. 
[also, without.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 5^ 

Yea, husband. No one better than thou knoweth the 

country about here. 

jELiND, foUozi'cd by Matthew, Sarah and Hannah, 
descend trail, and halt left. Jklind carries dressed 
lamb zvrapped in a cloth on his shoulder, Matthew 
a chicken in his hand, and Sarah and Hannah each 
have small bundles. Jklind turns around and 
appears to be consulting the others inaudibly. Jelind 
and Matthew zvear sheepskin coats, leggings and 
caps, and Sarah and Hannah Oriental robes, zuith 

long cloaks. 

Mary. 

[zmthin, in a tone of terror.] 

Oh, Joseph, I hear voices ! Can this portend harm to 

the blessed Child. 

Joseph. 
[soothingly.] 
Nay, Mary, they who approach are no doubt friends. 
Nevertheless will I bar the door while I parley with 
them. [He bars door. Jelind puts dozvniamb, goes up 
to it, and knocks.] Who is it that cometh hither, and 
what wouldst thou ? 

Jelind. 
It is I, Master Joseph, the shepherd who directed 
thee hither. 

[Joseph opens door, Jelind retreats a step or tzvo, and 
he steps out.] 

JosEPti. 
[bozving graciously.] 
Thou art welcome, friend, and these with thee. 



^2 The Star of Bethlehem 

Je:lind. 
These are Sarah, my wife, Hannah, my daughter, and 
Matthew, the lad who abideth in the house with us. Ere 
I reached home after meeting thee and thy lovely lady 
upon the road yonder, [Points out left] an angel of the 
Lord appeared unto them saying, that the Messiah was 
born at Bethlehem, and that they should find Him laid in 
a manger. Therefore, led I them hither; for methought 
it must be the place whereof the angel spake. 

JOSE^PH. 

Yea, verily, thou wert right. This night the prophecies 
of the Holy Scriptures are here fulfilled. 

jKlylND. 

Blessed be the name of the Lord! Behold I have 
brought with me a young lamb, the pick of my flock, 
Matthew a cockerel I gave him for his own, and Sarah 
and Hannah such things as they deem needful for the 
Holy Babe, and His mother. 

Joseph. 
The Lord reward ye all for this kindness. I pray ye 
enter. 

[Ji^LiND ^icks up lamb, and enters cavern, Matthe^w, 
Sarah and Hannah follow him when Joskph steps 
in and closes door. Stage remains empty for an 
instant; and Star of Bethlehem appears in the sky 
at extreme left, and moves slowly towards right. 
Je:lind, Matthe^w, Sarah and Hannah Hie out 
from door, followed by Joseph, zvho leaves it open, 
so light from within streams across stage.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 53 

Joseph. 
The peace of Jehovah abide with ye. 

Jelind, Matthew, Sarah and Hannah. 
\together.\ 
And with thee and thine, O, Master. 
[Joseph goes in, and shuts door. Jelind and his com- 
panions walk slozvly tozvard traii] 

Medor. 
[zvithotit, left, as if at summit of trail.] 
Yea, our way leads thither. Yonder moves the star. 

Jelind. 
[Pausing, near foot of trail, left center.] 
Verily, I know that voice. It is that of Medor, chief 
of the shepherds of the plain. 

[Medor descends trail, follozved by Firzi, Amarilla, 
leading Benoni, and band of shepherds. All are in 
costmne similar to Jelind and his companions.] 

Medor. 
[to Jelind.] 

Who art thou? 

Jelind. 

I am Jelind of the hills. Well met, brother. 

Medor. 
Well met, neighbor Jelind. 

Jelind. 
[bozving to Amarilla, zvho returns his salute.] 
And here is thy good wife, Amarilla, Firzi, and thy 



5-^ The Star of Bethlehem 

sturdy boy, Benoni. How he grows! Verily, we shall 
soon see him married. [Sarah and Hannah advance to 
meet Amarilla and Benoni, and they converse together 
inaiidihly. Matthkw claps Firzi's hand, and they also 
seem to engage in conversation.^ But wherefore comest 
thou, with thy family and these other shepherds to this 
unfrequented place at this hour? Go ye unto Bethlehem 
to be registered, and pay the tribute the Roman emperor 
hath laid upon us ? 

Mkdor. 
Nay, that did we three days since. We seek the 
Messiah, who angels of the Lord proclaimed unto us is 
born this night at Bethlehem. For, lo, as we watched our 
flocks upon the plain, about the hour of midnight a great 
light shone forth in the heavens, and there appeared a 
great company of angels, who sang: 

''Glory he to God in the highest! 
On earth peace! Good zvill to men! 

Glory! Glory! Glory! 

Glory in the highest!" 

FiRZI. 

And, as we gazed upward, lost in awe and amazement, 
suddenly stood forth in the midst of us one in shining 
garments, and with face glorious as the summer moon, 
who spake unto us, saying: "Go ye unto Bethlehem; for 
there this night is the Messiah born of a virgin. Follow 
ye his star in the heavens, and it will guide ye to the place 
where He is laid." Then, straightway, he vanished; and, 
lo, we saw in the sky a strange and beautiful star, that 



The Star of Bethlehem ^^ 

moved before us as we walked. It we followed, and it 
hath led us hither. 

Mkdor. 
A moment tarried we at our home, that we might tell 
these mavels to Amarilla, and bid her come with us ; and 
nothing would do but Benoni must come also. 

Amarilla. 
Yea, he made me take him from his bed; and bravely 
hath he trudged all the way, complaining naught of the 
distance, nor of the roughness of the road. 

Sarah. 
It was even so with our Hannah, whom her father and 
I would fain have had abide at home while we fared forth 
on the same errand. 

yrhe Star stands still over top of hill, directly above center 
of cavern and steadily grows brighter.] 

Je:lind. 

Know ye, friends, that we also have seen wonderful 
things. Yesterday, as evening drew near, as I was 
journeying homeward from Bethlehem, whither I had 
gone to be registered and pay my tax, on the high road, 
not far from this very spot, met I a most lovely lady, 
and a noble-looking man, for whom no place of lodging 
could be found in the town, and directed them to yonder 
disused stable for shelter. Meanwhile, an angel of the 
Lord, even such as thou describest, Firzi, appeared unto 
Hannah, Sarah and Matthew, at our house, the doors 
being shut; and bade them go forth to seek the Messiah, 



5<$ The Star of Bethlehem 

who was born at Bethlehem, and had been laid m a 
manger. Therefore, I hearing these things, conducted 
them hither. And verily this night are the Scriptures 
fulfilled in our eyes. Yonder in a manger rests the new- 
born Messiah. Already have I and my house done our 
poor honor to the Holy One of Israel. 

FiRZI. 

Yea, that is the place. Behold the star hath stayed its 
course above it, and blazes forth with new splendor. 

Medor. 
Come, friends, let us likewise seek out the Holy Babe, 
that we also may worship Him. 

[Medor ayid his family, followed by their band of shep- 
herds slowly and reverently approach cavern.^ 

Benoni. 
Why, mother, it is the same old stable where thou 
wast wont to go with me for our noontime rest, when 
we were watching the sheep on yonder plain. [Points 
right, front.] Many a time thou hast combed my hair 
and sang me to sleep therein. 

Amarii^la. 
Yea, my child, it is verily the same place. 
[Joseph throws open door of cavern, letting light 
stream out across stage,] 

Joseph. 
Peace be unto ye, friends. 

Medor and Companions. 
[together.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 57 

And to thee and thine, O, Master ! 
yrhey all make deep obeisance, then kneel in semi-circle 
in front of door. Jelind, Sarah, Matthew, and 
Hannah also kneel somewhat behind the others.] 

Au^ THE Shepherds. 
Hosanna to the Messiah! Hosanna to our Lord! 
[A rosy light, as of the dawn tinges the sky, back. 
Angels sing, zvithout, pianissimo, as if in the 
distance. ] 

Angel Chorus. 
Glory be to the Father, And to the Son, 
And to the Holy Ghost! 
Amen. 



ACT III 



Audience Hall of the Palace of the Emperor Caesar- 
Augustus of Rome. Same as Scene I, Act /, except 
that the corridor, back, is completely screened from 
view by purple curtains, suspended behind colonnade, 
and great central portal. There are no guards. 

[Enter Augustus by door, left, in white toga, bordered 
zvith purple. He paces floor pensively, as if lost in 
thought.] 

Augustus. 
[pausing center.] 
Strange that vision of the woman and the child. What 
can it portend ? 

[Enter Page by door, right.] 

Page. 
[Approaching emperor, and making lozu obeisance.] 
Aristobulus, Prince of Jiidea, craves audience, O, 
Caesar. 

Augustus. 
Admit him. 
[Exit page. The emperor ascends dais, and seats him- 
self in chair, as in Act I. Page opens door for 
Aristobulus, who enters, when he closes it with 



62 The Star of Bethlehern 

another obeisance. Aristobulus approaches dais 
and drops on one knee.] 

Augustus. 
Welcome, Prince of Judea. What wouldst thou? 

Aristobulus. 
I kneel at thy feet, O, Csesar, on behalf of my brother 
Alexander and myself, unfortunate sons of Herod, by 
Marianna, unhappy descendant of the great Simon Macca- 
beus, craving from thee, Illustrious, pity and justice. 

Augustus. 

Rise, worthy scion of the blood of heroes, and make 
known what thou desirest of me. It will be my pleasure 
to right any wrong thy brother and thyself may have 
sufifered. 

Aristobulus. 
[rising.] 

No, doubt, O, Csesar, thou art aware of the many 
crimes committed by our father. Hast thou not heard 
how he slew the venerable Hyrcanus, grand sire of our 
mother, also our uncle Aristobulus, her brother, of whom 
I am the namesake. Of no other fault could he accuse 
them save that they were pretenders to the throne, being 
of the royal blood of the Maccabees. Yet small must 
have been the danger from either; for Hyrcanus was 
eighty-four years of age, past all earthly ambitions, and 
Aristobulus but fifteen, without experience with men or 
knowledge of the world. 

Augustus. 

Yea, of these things have I heard. 



The Star of Bethlehem 63 

Aristobulus. 
For these acts of wanton cruelty he was so bitterly 
upbraided by our mother, that against her he turned his 
resentment. So giving ear to the base calumnies circu- 
lated against her by her implacable foes, Dori, his first 
wife, whom he had repudiated, and our aunt Salome, his 
sister, he likewise took her life. 

Augustus. 

Something of this know I. 

Aristobulus. 

Our father some time since recalled to his court Anti- 
pater, son of Dori, whom he hath proclaimed heir to his 
throne, although my brother and myself he had hitherto 
acknowledged as his rightful successors, both as being 
his sons, and the last of the blood of the Maccabees. 
Therefore we, who for our education and training here 
in Rome, under thy benign eye, Illustrious, return thee 
humble and dutiful thanks, knowing these things, fear 
to reside at his court except under thy august protection. 

Augustus. 
Methinks, prince, these fears on the part of thy brother 
Alexander and thyself are but the children of fancy. Ye 
are the sons of Herod, and it is well known that he dearly 
loved thy mother, even though in a misguided hour he 
slew her. He may, indeed, deny ye the succession to his 
throne, though the final decision with regard to that rests 
with Rome; but it cannot be possible that ye can be in 
jeopardy at his court, so long as ye remain guiltless of 
wrong doing, no matter who may be your accusers. 



6,f. The Star of Bethlehem 

Aristobulus. 
{indignantly, \ 

Nay, O, Caesar, we are Maccabees, who were never 
cowards. But under the tutelage of thine own dauntless 
warriors have we been taught that prudence no less than 
courage becomes the true soldier. Our fears are by no 
means groundless. Our uncle Pheroras, no less than our 
aunt, Salome, hates us for our mother's sake as does Dori, 
whom Antipater, her son, hath persuaded our father to re- 
call from exile, and who no doubt will by her machinations 
succeed in driving from his court in disgrace, Azili, his 
present beautiful and charming queen, even if she does 
not compass her death as she did that of our mother. 
Antipater will stop at naught to remove us from his path, 
that his right to the throne may be undisputed ; and in 
this in all ways will his mother aid him, actuated both 
by maternal love and pride, and enmity to us. 

Augustus. 

[Descending steps of dais, and grasping Aristobulus' 
hand.] 

Well spoken, son of the Maccabees. I meant not to 
impugn the valor of thyself, or thy noble brother, to whom 
I pray thee to commend me. Fear nothing. I, Caesar, will 
protect ye both with all the power of Rome. For the 
time being abide ye here ; and I will summon your father 
hither that I may exact from him such assurance of your 
safety as will render the machinations of all the con- 
spirators of Judea powerless to work ye harm. 



The Star of Bethlehem 63 

Aristobulus. 
I thank ye, Illustrious, in the name of my brother and 
myself. But I pray thee to suffer no delay in this matter ; 
for at this very moment our enemies at the court of our 
father may be plotting our destruction. 

Augustus. 
Again I say, fear nothing. Fare thee well. 

Aristobulus. 

I withdraw, with sense of deepest gratitude, O Caesar. 
[Aristobulus, with a profound obeisance retires, and 
exits by door, right. Augustus takes tablet from the 
bosom of his toga, ivrites on it. Claps hands. En- 
ter Page, right.] 

Augustus. 
[handing tablet to Page.] 

Take this to Lucian. Bid him frame a dispatch there- 
from immediately, and bring it to me for my signature 
here. 

[Page bows, and exits hastily, left. Augustus paces 

floor to right and back; and then re-ascends dais, 

seats himself, and thoughtfully leans chin on hand. 

Looks up.] 

Yea, the bloodthirsty spirit of this tyrant of Judea must 

be curbed. 

[Re-enter Page right.] 

Page. 
A priest of Jupiter craves audience, O Caesar. 



66 The Star of Bethlehem 

Augustus. 
Admit him. 

[Enter Prie:st by door, right, in full sacerdotal costume.'] 
Prie:st. 
[approaching dais and making low obeisance] 
All hail, O Caesar ! 

Augustus. 
All hail ! How can I serve thee, reverend Father ? 

Prii;st. 
I come, Augustus, from the sacred hierarchy now 
assembled in our great temple of Jupiter on the Capitola 
to discuss the marvelous portents that have spread amaze- 
ment and consternation throughout the city. The holy 
fathers deem it meet that thou as Pontiff Maximus of 
Rome should be at once apprised of these extraordinary 
and inexplicable occurrences. 

Augustus. 

Strange that this should not have been reported to me 
ere this. What are these portents? 

Priest. 

Last night, at about the twelfth hour, while the people 
were celebrating the festival of the Saturnalia, suddenly 
appeared in the heavens a dazzling light; and with a 
sound like thunder a great stone crashed through the roof 
of the temple of Vesta, shattering its walls, and extin- 
guishing the sacred fire so long by the holy Ves- 
tal Virgins with all diligence and veneration. At the same 
time, the images of all the gods in Rome were thrown 
down, and broken to pieces. 



The Star of Bethlehem 67 

Augustus. 
Strange ! What explanation offer the sacred augurs ? 

Priest. 
None, Illustrious. 

Augustus. 
And what thinkest thou these things portend ? 

Prie;st. 
I know not. But one thing hath impressed me in con- 
nection with these marvelous phenomena. 

Augustus. 
What? 

PriKst. 

Hast thou ever noticed, Illustrious, the inscription over 
the portal of the now ruined temple of Vesta? 

Augustus. 
Yea, many times. It read, "Temple which shall endure 
perpetually." 

Priest. 

Even so, O Csesar. It was erected, as thou knowest, by 
the pious and vituous Numa Pompilius, who as Romulus, 
is known as the father of our glorious city, may well be 
considered the father of the Roman religion, since he 
instituted the worship of our gods. On its completion it 
is said he questioned his holy sibyl, the nymph Aegeria, 
who prophesied that it would endure until a virgin should 
bring forth a child. This being deemed impossible said 
inscription was carved above its portals. 



68 The Star of Bethlehem 

Augustus. 
[m a bewildered tone] 
The virgin and child ! The virgin and child ! 

Priest. 
[amazed] 
What meanest thou, Illustrious? 
Augustus. 
Naught that I can tell thee now. 

Priest. 
[gazing at him curiously] 
As thou wilt, Augustus. I have yet other marvels to 
relate. This morn 'tis said three suns appeared upon the 
horizon ; and country people, flocking to the city in amaze- 
ment, declare that in this mid-winter season orchard trees 
put forth leaves and blossoms, the earth is covered with 
fresh, green grasses, and flowers have burst into bloom; 
so that the bees have left their hives and come back laden 
with honey. 

Augustus. 
[shaking his head doubtfully] 
These last would seem to be auspicious omens ; but the 
destruction of the holy temple and the images of the gods, 
together with the extinction of the sacred fire, fill me with 
dread lest they presage direful calamities. Moreover, I 
have myself yet other proof that the immortals have now 
in store a great revelation to mankind. Woe is me, if 
after I have established the world in peace, at the cost of 
the anguish of my own heart, and the blood of my people, 



The Star of Bethlehem ■ 6g 

there should be impending over us a visitation of the wrath 
of the gods. Yet if it is their will, so must it be. Truly 
the purposes of the divinities are beyond the limits of 
human knowledge. 

Priest. 

I pray thee, Illustrious, be not cast down by the series 
of prodigies I have related, the two last of which thou 
acknowledgest to be of good import. As thou sayest the 
purposes of the immortals are beyond the comprehension 
of men. Undoubtedly the gods love to be feared, and are 
prone to punish with severity all infractions of their will ; 
still they would not be adored as they are, were they not 
ever more incHned to confer benefits than to fulminate 
vengeance. But what message shall I convey to the sacred 
conclave ? 

Augustus. 

Bid the holy ministers of our faith order in my name 
the rarest marbles, and engage the most skilful artificers, 
that the ruined temple may be rebuilt and embellished on 
a scale of the utmost magnificence. Let them likewise 
call to their aid the most famous sculptors of the empire 
in order to fittingly replace the images of the gods. Bid 
them, also, redouble their zeal in the exercise of their holy 
offices, that the divine anger may be averted. 

Priest. 
It shall be as thou commandest, O Caesar. I salute thee, 
Augustus. 

Augustus. 
Hail and farewell. 



yo The Star of Bethlehem 

[The Priest, zvith reverential obeisance, retires, and exits 
by door, right. Augustus re-ascends dais, resumes 
seat, and again assumes a thoughful attitude for a 
moment, then speaks in a perplexed tone.] 
The virgin and child ! The virgin and child ! 
[Enter Lucian by door, left, with sheet of papyrus in his 
hand. He advances to steps of dais and makes obei- 
sance.'] 

Lucian. 
[extending papyrus] 
Here is the dispatch thou badest me prepare, O Caesar. 

Augustus. 
[taking sheet, and glancing over it] 
'Tis well. I wil sign it. 
[Lucian places stand in front of the Emperor, dips quill 
in vial of ink attached to his girdle, and hands it to 
Augustus with a low bow. The Emperor lays papy- 
rus on table, and hastily signs it, and hands it to Lu- 
cian, zvho restores stand to former position.] 
Let it be forwarded to Judea immediately. 

Lucian. 
[bowing low again] 
Thou shalt be obeyed, O Caesar. 
[With another obeisance, he exits by door, left. Enter 
Page by door, right.] 

Page. 
The noble senators, Maecenas and Agrippa, O Caesar. 



The Star of Bethlehem 71 

Augustus. 
Bid them enter. 
{Exit Page:. Enter Maecenas and Agrippa. Augustus 
descends from dais.] 

Maecenas and Agrippa. 
[together, bozving] 
All hail, O Caesar ! 

Augustus. 
[bozving.] 

Hail, noble friends, and welcome ! 

Maecenas. 
[stepping slightly in front of Agrippa and bozving] 
We come, Illustrious, from the Senate Chamber to an- 
nounce to thee that this day, by unanimous vote, the Con- 
script Fathers hath decreed that thou, whilst still in the 
flesh, shall be accorded the honor often previously be- 
stowed upon eminent Romans whose spirits have been 
translated to the stars, and should receive due homage as 
a god. Therefore, have they issued an order that thy 
statue shall be set up in all the temples, and the people 
should everywhere adore it as the simulacrum of the 
Patron Deity of Rome. 

Augustus. 
[firmly] 
I thank the noble senators for their zeal in my behalf; 
but far be it from me to accept this honor. What reason 
assigned they for this preposterous resolution? 



y2 The Star of Bethlehem 

Maecenas. 

The reason, Augustus, was twofold. Firstly, thy un- 
paralleled wisdom, which partakes more of the divine than 
the human ; secondly, the prodigies of last night the holy 
augurs now declare must indicate that the Romans should 
select a new god; since the fact that the images of the 
old were overthrown throughout the city, and the sacred 
fire extinguished, would lead to the conclusion that they 
had forsaken us. 

Augustus. 

My wisdom is but that of mere man, and often fallible. 
Moreover, in this case methinks the holy augurs have 
erred. Far more likely is it, that having foreknowledge 
of the purposes of men, the gods have sent these por- 
tents as a warning against this act of presumption. 

Agrippa. 
\advancing\ 
I pray thee reflect, Illustrious. 

Augustus. 
No reflection, my dear friend, will alter my determina- 
tion. Too well know I the limitations of my humanity 
to arrogate tO' myself equality with the immortals. Not 
thus can be averted the threatened castigation of angry 
deities. Tell the Senate I absolutely forbid the publica- 
tion of this impious decree. Furthermore, it is my in- 
tention to myself issue an edict prohibiting that I be called 
Lord of the World, as hath been proposed. The applica- 
tion of Augustus, conferred upon me by the Senate, I 



The Star of Bethlehem 73 

accepted, deeming it befitting to my office of Pontiff Maxi- 
mus, and the people call me Father of Our Country. I 
want no other titles. 

Maecenas and Agrippa. 
\togcihcY.\ 
But, Illustrious — 

Augustus. 
Not another word, good friends. 

YEnter Empress Livia hy door, left.] 

Empress. 
[pausing, left center.] 
I perceive, my lord, that thou art engaged with thy 
counselors in the discussion of matters of state. Shall 
I withdraw? 

Augustus. 
Nay, dearest Livia, thou knowest well that I have no 
secrets from thee. 

[The Empress comes fonvard left center.] 
Maecenas and Agrippa. 
[together, bozving lozv.] 
All hail, Augusta ! 

Empress. 
[bowing] 

Hail, noble senators ! 

Augustus. 
These friends, my dear Livia, but now announced to me 
that the venerable Senate hath conferred upon me the 



y4 The Star of Bethlehem 

title of god, and ordered that my statue should be wor- 
shipped in all the temples of Rome. 

Empress. 
\in a tone of delight.] 
Then, thou shalt be a god and I a goddess. We shall 
be truly Augustus and Augusta. 

Augustus. 
Nay, I have refused. 

Empre:ss. 
[in an amazed and disappointed tone] 
Refused? 

Augustus. 
Yea, refused. 

Empre:ss. 
[still amazed] 

But wherefore, my lord? 

Augustus. 

Several reasons have I already given these, my faith- 
ful counselors, yet another will I now disclose. Listen, 
Livia. Listen, friends. Last evening, being greatly 
troubled by a strange foreboding, and depression of 
spirits, I sought my garden by the Campidolio, and sum- 
moned hither the famous Tiburtine Sibyl, wonder of our 
time, who when I questioned her made no answer, but 
only pointed upward. And gazing towards the heavens, 
as she indicated, I beheld standing upon a luminous cloud, 
the form of a beautiful woman, with an infant in her 
arms wrapped in a mantle. Her face was pure and lovely 



The Star of Bethlehem 75 

as that of an innocent maiden, and round her and the child 
shone a great golden glory, like that in which the im- 
mortals bask. Then, as overcome with awe, I fell on my 
knees and stretched out my arms in adoration, I heard 
a mighty voice peal forth, even in the thunderous tones 
of Jove himself: 'This is the Lord of Lords, born of a 
virgin," and then again : "Lo, He is greater than thou." 
Moreover, when I returned hither, and sought my couch, 
thrice in my dreams did I behold that same vision, and 
heard the awful voice repeat : "He is greater than thou." 

Empre:ss. 

And for such a mere phantasm wouldst thou throw 
away the honors of divinity? 
[Lights are slowly lozvered.] 
Augustus. 
My dearest wife, I am Augustus, and thou art Augusta. 
Art thou not content with such a title as satisfies me ? 

Empre:ss. 

Yea, my lord, thou knowest that in all things thy will 
is mine. Yet were it not well to give the matter further 
consideration ? 

Augustus. 
It is ever my dearest wish to please thee. Therefore, 
will I reflect upon it, although certain am I that my de- 
cision is irrevocable. 

[He retires up stage, and stands for a moment with back 
towards audience as if plunged in thought. The Em- 
press also walks back left center, as if intending to 



7^5 The Star of Bethlehem 

ed, curtains hack of grand portal center, are drawn 
back, and the vision of the Virgin and Child appears, 
illumined zvith a bright, golden radiance. He falls 
on his knees, and stretches out his arms.] 
Yea, thou art greater than I ! 

Empress. 
[in a tone of bezvilderment.] 
Greater than thou? Greater than thou? 
[She stands for a few seconds her eyes fastened on the 
vision, then drops on her knees beside her husband, 
and also stretches out her arms. Maecenas and 
Agrippa stand still, right front, staring at vision in 
blank amazement.'] 



ACT IV. 



SCENE I. 

A street in Jerusalem. Buildings of Oriental style, ap- 
parently of massive stone, zvith flat roofs, surrounded 
by parapets, and partially covered with bright- 
colored awnings. In front of arched doorway of 
building at left of scene is suspended a tankard, in- 
dicating that it is a tavern. Sound of laughter of 
men and clang of metal heard at rising of curtain. 

At opening of scene people of Oriental, Greek and Ro- 
man costume are seen passing and re-passing. A 
male voice is heard singing, without, left, as if in 
tavern. 

Song. 

'When the wine is in, the zvit is out," 

So say the sages zvise; 
But zvhen our skins are full of unne 

Wit we may well despise. 
Then pledge we all the ruby zvine 

That makes the spirits glad. 
Better be happy and be drunk. 

Than sober and be sad. 



8o The Star of Bethlehem 

Chorus. 

''When the wine is in, the zvit is out/' 

So say the sages wise; 
But zvhen our skins are full of zmne 

Wit we may well despise. 

[Sound of uproarious laughter of men and boys, without, 
left. Jelind enters, left, front, carrying long, low 
basket on his arm, containing a number of little sacks 
of dressed lamb-skin filled with cream-curds. Two 
boys, with writing tablets attached to their girdles, 
tug at opposite end, zMle Je:lind pulls violently in 
the effort to disengage it from their grasp. They 
continue the struggle half-zvay across stage. The 
boys scream with laughter, and mirth continues with- 
out.] 

Je:lind. 
[while pulling at basket, angrily.] 
Ye young thieves, vagabonds, children of Beelzebub! 
Let go ere I call the Watch ! 

[Boys laugh uproariously.] 
First Boy. 
Not until we have a sample of thy cream-curds, Father 
Shepherd. 

Second Boy. 
Yea, thou farest through the streets crying, "Who'll 
have my cream-curds?" And verily will we. 

Jelind. 
[zvith rising anger.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 8i 

But where is your money, ye young vagabond ? Where 
is your money? 

\_Boys laugh.] 

First Boy. 

We need none. We of the Rabbinical school are priv- 
ileged. 

J^LIND. 

[in a violent rage.] 

Imps! Children of the Evil One! Is this what the 
Rabbins teach ye? 

[Boys laugh again.] 

First Boy. 
Nay, we teach ourselves to help ourselves. 

Second Boy. 
Verily, that do we. 
[Jelind gives basket a violent jerk, both boys let go; 
and while he is staggering about trying to recover 
his balance, Urst boy snatches one of the sacks of 
curds, and runs off, left. Jei^ind clutches at second 
boy, who eludes him, and runs after his companion. 
He turns around as he reaches left, i. ] 
Farewell, Father Shepherd! Let us know when thou 
comest hither again with thy cream-curds. 
[Runs off laughing.] 

Je:eind. 
[Looking out, left, and shaking fist at retreating boys] 
Thieves ! Scoundrels ! Wretches ! [Another burst of 



82 The Star of Bethlehem 

laughter, zvithout. Jelind again shakes tist.] Yea, 
laugh! Laugh! This is a fine way to treat a poor 
stranger, pack of rascals that ye are ! [Shakes fist again. 
More laughter, zvithout. He turns tozvard audience.] 
Verily, here in the city is an unmannerly rabble. In 
the country we think it not sport to rob and mistreat 
an unoffending stranger. Hither came I to sell my cream- 
curds, thinking I should find a better market than in 
Bethlehem. But, alas, small gain am I likely to have 
this day. 'Tis well I was able to at last shake off the 
last of the band of unruly school-boys that set upon me 
in yonder street ere they had filched my entire stock. Cute 
young rascals were they ; for whilst some did parley with 
me, others stole up behind, and snatched sacks of curds 
from my basket. [Counts sacks in basket.] Three and 
four — six — six and five makes ten. Yea, a full half- 
dozen have they stolen. Glad am I they laid not hands on 
the biggest. [Holds up large sack.] But I forgive the 
mischievous lads, and the rude tavern roysterers who 
egged them on. Since I first beheld that lovely lady, and 
paid homage to her blessed Son, the Infant Messiah, no 
more can I harbor resentment. [He starts to go. Looks 
out, right.] Lo, who are these three men, in strange and 
splendid raiment I behold approaching? Verily must they 
be kings of far countries. And one of them is a black 
man. This is indeed prodigious. Methought all black 
men were slaves. 

[Jelind stands still at back of scene, and watches curi- 
ously. Enter Mei^chior, Balthazar, and Caspar, 
right, I. Balthazar is a black man. They pause 



The Star of Bethlehem 83 

at entrance. Their attendants remain in zvings just 
zinthout.] 

MliLCIilOR. 

[to Balthazar and Caspar] 
At last, after our long and weary journey, have we 
arrived at the city of Jerusalem. But here thus far have 
we heard naught of him who in inspired visions we were 
told was to be born King of the Jews. 
Balthazar. 
Yet this is the seat of the kings of Judea. 

Caspar. 
As thou sayest. And hither have we been guided by 
the mysterious star, that announced to us the birth of 
the glorious prince, whom we were told would be the 
redeemer of the world. This it seemeth must be our 
destination. 

Balthazar. 
Still see we here no signs of rejoicing over such a 
momentous event. 

Me:lchior. 
Perchance we have come too late, and the festivities 
are already over. But let us question yonder shepherd. 
Mayhap from him may we gain some knowledge of the 
matter. [Addressess Ji<lind.] Come hither, friend. 

JeIvIND. 
[approaching timidly and bozving azvkzvardly] 
What would your Majesty? 



8^ The Star of Bethlehem 

Me:lchiok. 
Canst thou tell us, good Shepherd, if within the past 
few days hath been born a king of Judea ? 

Nay, O Majesty, our King Herod was not born yester- 
day, nor within a few days, or a few years, for that mat- 
ter. He is well nigh as old as Father Adam, to judge 
from his looks. [Glances at Balthazar and Caspar.] 
As your Majesties will say when ye have seen him. 

Caspar. 
[impatiently] 
But surely within a fortnight hath been born a son to 
thy king who is heir to the throne? 

JEIvIND. 
[scratching his head] 

An it be so, naught have I heard of it, and we see not 
how it can well be. To be sure there's no knowing what 
crazy notion King Herod will take into his head; but, 
methinks, if such a child had been born, I would have 
had news of it ere this. Kings are wont to bid all us 
poor folk rejoice whenever we have a new royal mouth 
to feed. [Glances apprehensively from one of the Magi 
to the other.] I beg your Majesties' pardon if my speech 
sounds too bold. I am unused to the ways of cities, be- 
ing only a shepherd of the hills beyond Bethlehem, who 
cometh to Jerusalem occasionally to sell my cream-curds, 
and am accustomed to speak my mind freely. 
[The Magi laugh.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 85 

Melchior. 
\in a tone of kindly amusement] 
Nay, friend, thy plain speech offendeth us not. And 
thou art sure no prince hath lately been born to succeed 
to the throne of Judea? 

Jkund. 
Yea, your Majesty, King Herod's youngest son by the 
beautiful Queen Azili is nigh unto two years old, and is 
now at nurse in Bethlehem. I know naught of any other. 
Wilt thou not buy some of my cream-curds? They are 
fresh made this morning, and thou wilt find them de- 
licious. 

Me^IvCHIOR. 

[zvith a courteous gesture of refusal.] 
Nay, I have no need of any at present. 

Je:lind. 
[offering sacks of curds to Balthazar and Caspar.] 
Will ye not try some, majesties? I will deliver them 
at your lodgings an ye wish. 

Balthazar and Caspar. 
[together.] 
We need them not. 

M^lchior. 
[in a laughing tone] 
Nevertheless, if we may not purchase thy wares, here 
is a piece of silver for thy trouble. 

[Hk drops coin in Jelind's basket, Balthazar and Cas- 
par follozv his example. J^lind makes obeisance. 



86 The Star of Bethlehem 

The three zvise men zvalk dignifiedly to left i, and 
exit. Their attendants folllozv. Jelind offers them 
his curds as they pass.] 

JdIvInd. 
Curds! Fresh cream-curds! [Attendants shake their 
heads, and exit, left i. Jelind stares after them as they 
disappear.] These strange people do not seem to care 
much for cream-curds. [Picks coins out of basket and 
bites each piece.] Nevertheless, have I good profit this 
day. Yet would it have been a funny sight to see those 
black men eating white cream-curds. [Laughs, and exits, 
right I. Crying out his zvares.] Cream-curds! Fresh 
cream-curds ! 

[People pass and re-pass again for a minute or tzuo. Re- 
enter Jelind right i.] 
Lo, my poor wits have been wool-gathering again, 
wherefore told I not those strange kings of the Holy 
Babe born twelve days since at Bethlehem. As he is the 
Messiah, he must needs be King of the Jews, as well as 
King of Kings. I must haste to seek them out, and tell 
them of the Blessed Child and His mother. 
[Exits hastily, left i.] 



SCENE H. 

Audience hall of King Herod in Jerusalem. Corinthian 
columns, right and left, and open colonnade of the 
same, back, shozving terrace beyond, along zvhich 
sentries are pacing. In the background is a garden. 



The Star of Bethlehem Sy 

stately tozvers and buildings, and distant viezv of the 
temple on Mount Zion. Doorzvay, left 2, hung zvith 
Oriental draperies. Right, front, is a dais, on zMch 
stands a throne surmounted by a canopy. The floor 
is a variegated marble, like that of the palace of 
Augustus. 
Members of court discovered, gathered in groups, ap- 
parently engaged in earnest discussion. Prince 
Antipatkr, son of Herod, distinguished by his rich 
dress, and coronet of gold, passes stealthily from one 
group to another, as if intent upon overhearing the 
conversation. 

[Enter Herod from terrace, in royal robes, and zvearing 
crozvn, center. On his appearance a sudden hush 
falls on the assembly, and the courtiers bozv lovif as he 
passes them. He zvalks slozvly and moodily, zvith 
dozvncast head to dais, and seats himself on throne.] 

Courtiers. 
[in c hones] 
All hail, King Herod ! 
[He acknozvledges the salutation zvith a curt nod, and 
beckons to Antipater, zvho approaches dais, then 
dismisses court zvith a zvave of the hand. All exeunt 
except Antipater.] 

Herod. 
[to Antipater] 
What matter was it members of the court were dis- 
cussing so earnestly as I entered? 



88 The Star of Bethlehem 

Antipater. 
They spake, O Father, of the wonderful new star, that 
twelve days since flamed forth in the heavens, and then 
disappeared. Last night it blazed out again with new 
splendor. This strange phenomenon hath amazed and 
affrighted all the dwellers in Jerusalem. 

Herod. 
Yea, of this have I heard. What say men the prodigy 
portend ? 

Antipater. 

Most believe it can but presage the birth of the Messiah. 
Herod. 
[thoughtfully] 
The Messiah? The Messiah? 

Antipater. 
And this morning arrived in the city three men of 
kingly aspect, who declare they seek one who is born 
King of the Jews. 

Herod. 
[in a tone of indignation] 
King of the Jews? I am King of the Jews? Who 
dare usurp my throne. 

Antipater. 
None, O King, my Father, dare conspire against thee. 

Herod. 
I make not so sure of that. There have been plots enow 
since I have wielded the scepter. 



The Star of Bethleheyn 8g 

Antipater. 
But they have all been crushed. 

Herod. 
Yea, and I will continue to crush them. Not one of my 
own flesh and blood will I spare who riseth up against 
me. Knowest thou where these distinguished strangers 
are lodged ? 

Antipater. 
Nay, Father. 

He:rod. 
Go thou, then, seek Pheon, and bid him come to me 
immediately by the secret way thou knowest of. Then 
return thou hither. 

Antipater. 
Yea, Father, thy commands shall be obeyed. 
\Exit Antipate:r hastily by door left.] 
Herod. 
[leaning chin on hand] 
Of all men most miserable is he who wears a crown. 
Its gold and gems but make it the heavier burden for the 
brow. Ah, wretched me ! What hath it profiteth me that 
boasting no royal blood I have been elevated to a throne, 
when I can only maintain it at the cost of blood. Only 
through terror can I reign. [He comes down from 
dais and paces floor moodily. Pauses, center.] No- 
where on earth is there one whom I can call friend. 
My courtiers are but lying sycophants, who would re- 
joice at my death or overthrow. None of my kindred 



go The Star of Bethlehem 

can I trust, nay, not even one of mine own children. 
[Paces floor again, then returns to center.^ But one 
woman have I ever loved, Marianna, and she for a time 
returned my passion. But her love turned to hatred 
when I was forced to slay her grandsire and her brother, 
whom a rebellious people would fain have crowned in 
my stead. So enraged at her fierce upbraidings, and the 
proof of her encouragement of plots against me, her I 
hkewise slew. [Clasps his hands convulsively.] And 
since that hour to mine eyes all things are red. 
Before me ever swims a sea of blood. [SJiudders. Then 
rears his form proudly.] But I am Herod, King of the 
Jews, and so will I remain. Not even the divine Messiah 
shall supplant me. [Knock on wall, right of throne.] 
[Secret door in zvall opens, and PhKon enters.] 

Pheon. 
[dropping on knee before Herod] 
All hail, O King! 

Herod. 
Knowest thou where lodge the three mysterious 
strangers who arrived in our city this morning? 

Pheon. 
Yea, O King. The place is nigh at hand. 

Herod. 
Guide thou thither my son, Antipater, return by the 
secret way, and await my pleasure in the hidden chamber. 

[Pheon bozvs. Enter Antipater, Herod turns to him, 
and takes signet-ring from his finger.] 



The Star of Bethlehem gi 

Take my ring, and go thou with Pheon, who will point 
thee out the place of sojourn of the three kingly strangers 
whereof we spake. Greet them in my name, and bid them 
make haste to visit me here. See thou that they are 
treated with all the honors of royalty. 

Antipater. 
yhowing, and taking ring] 
I hasten to obey, O Father. 
[Antipatkr exits by way of terrace. Phe:on rises j makes 
obeisance, and follows him. He^rod again paces 
floor with agitated steps.] 

Herod. 
I feel the crown trembling upon my brow. Who is 
this that is born King of the Jews? Long since was it 
prophesied unto me that a child should occupy my throne. 
This must be he. But him will I slay, as I have the 
other pretenders before him, although all the Land of 
Israel shall run with blood ere it be accomplished. Since 
I mounted the throne, through the favor of great Antony, 
supplanting Antigone, for thirty years have I held it 
despite the murmurs and outbreaks of my rebellious peo- 
ple, and the treachery of those I would fain have made 
my friends. Surely I can maintain it to the end. [Claps 
his hands. Enter Page, who makes profound obeisance.] 
Seek out the High Priest at his palace, and bid him 
assemble within the hour the most learned doctors of the 
Law in all Jerusalem. Make haste. 

Page. 
{zvith another obeisance] 



g2 The Star of Bethlehem 

It shall be as though I had wings to my feet to do thy 
bidding, O King. 
\Ex\t Page hastily, center. Enter Lady in attendance 

upon QuKEN AziLi by door, left. Herod stays her 

with a gesture.] 

Lady. 

[dropping a sweeping curtesy.] 
All hail, O King! 

Herod. 
Where is the Queen? 

Lady. 
She hath gone unto Bethlehem, may it please thee, O 
King, to visit the infant prince at nurse there. 

Herod. 
L^nto Bethlehem? 'Tis well. Upon her return bid her 
wait upon me. 

Lady. 
Thy commands shall be obeyed, O King. 
[She makes another curtesy and exits, center. Herod 
moodily paces floor as before for a minute, then 
ascends dais, seats himself, and leans chin on hand. 
Enter Antipater center, followed by Melchior, 
Caspar and Balthazar. They approach dais. 
Herod rises.] 

Antipater. 
[making obeisance] 
Behold, O King, my Father, these are the famed Magi 



The Star of Bethlehem gj 

thou badest me invite to honor thee by a visit to thy 
court. 

Herod. 
Most welcome are ye, O illustrious strangers, to my 
city of Jerusalem, and my palace. 
[The three Magi salaam.^ 

MEIvCHIGR. 

We thank thee, O King, for thus honoring us. 
He:rod. 

But now was I apprised of your arrival, whereupon 
dispatched I my beloved son there, Antipater, to seek ye 
out, that I might greet ye, and lay all the resources of my 
kingdom at your disposal. 

Caspar. 
Thou doest us too great honor, O King. 

Bai^thazar. 
This courtesy, O King, confirms the report we have 
heard of thy hospitality. 

He;rod. 
Kings honor themselves in bestowing honor upon the 
wise. Something have I heard of the purpose that brings 
ye to our realm. Seek ye not the Messiah, that divinely- 
appointed prince foretold by our inspired prophets of old, 
whose birth the people of Israel are hourly expecting? 

M^LCHIOR. 

We seek him who is born King of the Jews, for so was 



g/f. The Star of Bethlehem 

it revealed unto us. His Star have we seen in the East, 
and are come to worship him. 

Hkrod. 

Even so. It must be the Messiah whom ye seek. No 
other can it be. In all ways possible will I aid ye in your 
search. Already have I called a council of the wise men 
of my realm, that they may declare unto me the place 
where this glorious prince is to be born. When this I 
have ascertained, immediately will I communicate it unto 
ye. Meanwhile, I beg that ye will honor me by partak- 
ing of the refreshment my son Antipater will have pre- 
pared. Then will we confer further on this important 
subject. 

Mklchior. 

Greatly are we beholden to thee, O King, for this as 
thy other courtesies. 

Caspar and Balthazar. 
\togcther.\ 

Our venerable colleague voices our sentiments, O, King. 
Herod. 
[turning to Antipatkr.] 
Conduct these noble strangers to our banquet-hall, and 
order such a feast as befits royal visitors set before them. 

Antipater. 
[zuith a profound obeisance.] 
It shall be as thou sayest, O King, my father. 
[The Magi salaam, and follozv Antipater. He and they 



The Star of Bethlehem 95 

dais, seats himself again on the throne, leans chin 
exit, center, turning to the left. Herod re-ascends 
on hand, and is apparently plunged in gloomy reverie. 
Enter High Priest and Doctors oi^ the Law from 
the right center. 

High Priest. 
[iiiGliing an obeisance.] 
In obedience to thy command, O King, these learned 
doctors and myself here present ourselves. What is thy 
royal pleasure? 

Herod. 
Thee have I summoned, together with these distin- 
guished students of the Sacred Scriptures, that ye may 
consult together, and declare unto me where say the 
prophets the Messiah is to be born, whose advent our peo- 
ple now believe to be nigh at hand. 

High Priest. 
[bozmng.] 
Thy will is ours, O King. Permit us to refer to the 
rolls of prophecy. 

Herod. 
'Tis well. I will patiently await your report. 
[With a profound obeisance the High Priest retires, and 
joins the Doctors, who after bowing to Herod, retire 
up stage, left, where they constdt rolls of prophecy, 
and confer together. Herod sits still, leaning chin 
on hand, and again seems lost in gloomy meditation. 



96 The Star of Bethlehem 

Doctors conclude their conference, and High Prii^st 
again approaches dais.] 

High Prie:st. 
[with another obeisance.] 

Unanimously the learned doctors declare, O King, that 
the Messiah is to be born in Bethlehem of Judea. For 
thus it is written by the prophet : "And thou, Bethlehem, 
in the land of Judea, art not the least among the princes 
of Judea; for out of thee shall come a Governor, that 
shall rulle my people Israel." 

Herod. 
'Tis well. Accept my thanks. 

High Prie:st. 
It is our pleasure to serve thee, O King 
[High Prikst and Doctors of the; Law all bozv pro- 
foundly. Exeunt center, leaving by terrace to the 
right. Enter Antipatkr and the three Mage, from 
the left, center. The latter approach dais, and again 
salaam. Herod rises.] 

Herod. 
Again welcome, illustrious strangers. But now hath 
adjourned the convocation of eminent students of our 
sacred Scriptures, whom I called together with a view 
of aiding ye in your search for the great prince of Israel, 
whose birth was miraculously foretold to ye. The council 
hath declared unto me that according to the word of the 
holy prophet of Jehovah he is to be born in Bethlehem of 
Judea. My son, Antipater, will accompany ye thither, 



The Star of Bethlehem gy 

and provide a fitting escort, that ye may journey in ail 
lionor. 

Melchior. 
We thanlc tliee, O King, for thy gracious offer; but 
we must pursue our search unattended, for thus was it 
revealed unto us by celestial visitants in inspired visions. 

He:rod. 
So be it. Yet must our son, Antipater, to return with 
ye to your inn, and in all ways expedite the preparations 
for your departure. Then when ye have come unto 
Bethlehem, seek diligently for the child; and when ye 
have found him, bring me word again, that I may come 
and worship him also. 

Me:i^chior. 
Thy favor overwhelms us, O King. 

Herod. 
Nay, noble friend. It is my pleasure, no less than my 
duty, to honor distinguished visitors to my court. My 
only regret is that the hospitality I am permitted to show 
ye accords not with your merits, but solely with my good- 
will. 



MKI.CHIOR. 

[bowing lozv.] 
Most gracious art thou, O King. 
The Magi, and Antipater, all make obeisance, and 
exit center. When they disappear, Herod descends 
hastily from dais, and knocks at secret door in wall. 
Pheon enters, and drops on knee.] 



g8 The Star of Bethlehem 

Herod. 
Go thou by the secret way to the palace gate, and follow 
the mysterious strangers who but now left my presence, 
and journey unto Bethlehem. Find out whom they seek 
there, and return hither in all haste. On thy life lose 
not sight of them for a single instant until thine errand 
is accomplished. 

Pheon. 

It shall be as thou commandest, O King. 

[Phe;on hastily rises, and zvith an obeisance, exit by 

secret door, and closes it after him.] 

He:rod. 

[standing still, center, and clenching hands.] 

He shall not escape me ! He shall not escape me ! 



SCENE HI. 

Place of the Nativity by night. Same as in Act II, Scene 
II. Mary is heard singing within as curtain rises. 

Song. 
Sweet babe divine, lie still and slumber. 

' God's holy angels hover round. 
Celestial hosts, thought cannot number. 

Watch o'er thee in earth's fetters bound. 
Thou earnest unto mankind showing 

The love the Heavenly Father bears 
For His poor children, who unknowing 

His fields have soivn with weeds and tare^. 



Tlie Star oj Bethlehem gg 

Blest am I, on. zvliosc breast is resting 
Tliy Jioly /lead, O, Son of Light, 

Jl'lw the sad ivorld from evil wresting 
Shall usher in God's day-spring briglit. 

[After a short pause, Mary emerges from cavern, glances 
abont her, and advances slowly to center.] 

Mary. 
[lifting her eyes toward heaven and crossing her hands 
upon breast.] 
O great Jehovah, Lord God of Israel, how wonderful 
are Thy ways. Blessed, indeed, am I above women ; 
since Thine Only begotten Son, descending from His 
throne of glory at Thy right hand to redeem a lost world, 
hath by Thy wall through me taken on human form. I 
thank Thee for Thy great grace, and ever bless Thy holy 
name. 

[Enter Joseph from cavern.] 

Jose:ph. 

[advancing tozvard her.] 

Peacefully the blessed child sleepeth. Therefore, 

awhile mayst thou linger in the fresh air, my dearest 

Mary. Balmy it is as on a night in May ; and verily here 

pervadeth a sweet and holy peace, such as no other spot 

on earth hath ever known. It is as though the unseen 

presence of the Heavenly Spirit brooded above it, and 

angelic hosts encompassed it 'round about. 

Mary. 
Yea, Joseph, God's blessed angels ever guard the Holy 
One. Verily the ]\Iost High hath given them charge 



loo The Star of Bethlehem 

concerning Him, that in His helpless infancy He might 
have such protection as our feeble human power cannot 
afford. 

Joseph. 
Sooth speakest thon. But much doth it amaze me that 
Almighty Jehovah should choose that His divine Son, 
King of the Heavens, round whose pearly throne circle 
the blazing stars, and the Savior of the world, be born 
in a wretched stable, and be ministered unto only by 
humble and obscure folk, like thou and I, and the lowly 
shepherds who have so devotedly aided us in His care. 

Mary. 
The Lord's ways are not ours, dear Joseph. Deeply 
grieved was I at first, that He, my son and my Lord, 
whose birth was announced by an archangel, and heralded 
by heavenly choirs, should appear on earth amid such 
poor and mean surroundings; but now methinks, dimly 
can I perceive in this the divine purpose. Is it not meet 
that He, whom the prophets declare, shall proclaim good 
tidings to the poor, should Himself know poverty? 

Joseph. 

Mayhap thou art in the right. But why lacketh He 
the honor befitting one who shall be King of Israel and 
Lord of the world? 

Mary. 

No earthly honor needeth He. Unto what palace 
chamber hath thronged the blessed seraphs, who bask in 
the ineffable glory of the presence of God, as unto yonder 
humble shelter the Lord hath provided for His divine 
Son, and us His guardians? 



The Star of Bethlehem loi 

Joseph. 
Yet of men hath the Holy One thus far none to do 
Him reverence save thou and I, and our friends the poor 
shepherds. 

Mary. 
And could self-seeking courtiers, indifferent hirelings, 
or reluctant bond-slaves, minister to the needs of a tender 
babe like those who serve him with unquestioning faith 
and love ? 

Joseph. 
But how shall His work be accomplished, if He associ- 
ates Himself with the poor and lowly of earth ? 

Mary. 
Question not the wisdom of the Most High, my hus- 
band. Rememberest thou not how Saul went forth to 
seek two beasts strayed from his father's herd, and found 
the crown of Judea, and David, our great ancestor, the 
simple shepherd lad, likewise became king, and a mighty 
man of war to save Israel from the wrath of the Gentiles ? 
The mission of the divine Messiah cannot fail. Though 
He be despised and rejected of men. His glory shall 
cover all lands as the waters cover the sea. Even now, 
if it be the will of Jehovah, may the great and wise be 
sent from the ends of the earth to do Him homage. 

Joseph. 
\hoiving his head humbly.] 
I stand rebuked, dear Mary. 

Mary. 
Now must I return to my watch beside the sleeping- 
babe lest he waken and have need of me. 



I02 The Star of Bethlehem 

[Mary re-enters cavern. Star of Bethlehem again 
appears in sky, left, and moves slozvly tozvards right, 
as before.] 

JOSKPH. 

O, my blessed son, if mine thou mayest be called, who 
art the offspring of eternal God, forgive the weakness 
which caused my faith to falter in the midst of mysteries 
my feeble understanding comprehendeth not. Hence- 
forth, whate'er betide, shall I rely upon the blessed 
promises of the Lord God of Israel, whose word cannot 
fail, and be in thought and deed obedient to His will. [He 
glances toward trail.] A company of men approach yon- 
der. What would they ? 

[The three Magi, accompanied by their attendants, de- 
scend trail. They salute Jose:ph zvith Oriental 
salaams.] 

M^LCHIOR. 

Peace be unto thee, friend. 

Joseph. 
And unto ye. Whom seek ye? 

Melchior. 
We seek Him who is born King of the Jews. His 
Star saw we in our homes in the far east, and have come 
to worship him. Behold the glorious planet, which hath 
guidest us hither, hath stayed its course above yonder 
rude shelter. Canst thou tell us if there abideth the infant 
prince of Israel ? 

Joseph. 
Yea, under that humble roof rests the holy Messiah, 



The Star of Bethlehem 103 

whose advent the inspired prophets of the Lord God of 
Israel long since foretold, and whose glory shall encom- 
pass the whole world. 

Melchior. 
Suffer us, then, to humbly lay at his feet the offerings 
of gold, frankincense and myrrh we have brought with 
us, typifying the reverence mankind through all future 
generations must pay unto the Holy One, whom the 
great God that even they which sit in darkness ignorantly 
worship, hath sent to redeem the world. 

Jose:ph. 
[opening door of cavern.] 
Ye are most welcome. [Calls.] Mary! 
[Caspar takes golden casket from attendant, and Mel- 
CHiOR and Balthazar alabaster vases from the two 
others. Mary appears in door of cavern.] 
This is the mother of the Holy Babe. 

Mary. 
Ye are welcome, sirs. I pray ye enter. 

The Magi. 
[together.] 
We are most honored. 
[They bow profoundly, and she leads the way into cavern. 
JosE^PH lingers a moment.] 
Jose:ph. 
How strangely was Mary's prophecy fulfilled. Marve- 
lous are the ways of Jehovah. Blessed is the name of the 
Lord. 



104. The Star of Bethlehem 

[He enters cavern. After a moment's interval, the Magi 
emerge from cavern, follozved by Joseph and Mary. 
They turn and make obeisance.] 

Mary. 
The holy peace of the Most High who hath guided ye 
hither from far-off lands, O, noble strangers, abide 
with ye ! 

Mi^lchior. 
Be it even so unto thee, O, blessed mother of the Re- 
deemer of the World! Graciously permit that our ser- 
vants may likewise pay homage to the Holy Babe? 

Mary. 
[bowing] 
They will be welcome. 
[The three Magi go up to their attendants, and appar- 
ently speak to them in their own tongue. The serv- 
ants approach cavern, and prostrate themselves before 
it, then follow Mary within. Melchior turns to 
Joseph.] 

Melchior. 
One favor would we crave of thee, most honored 
friend, ere we depart hence. This morning when we 
arrived in Jerusalem, did Herod, the king, send unto us 
his son. Prince Antipater, and besought us to visit him at 
his palace. There received he us in all graciousness ; 
and on learning of the object of our search, called to- 
gether a council of the wise men of the realm, who re- 
vealed unto him that the great prince, whom ye of Israel 



The Star of Bethlehem lo^ 

call the Messiah, should be born in Bethlehem. Then 
bade he us journey thither and find him; and when we 
had done so return and disclose the place of his abode, 
that he might come and worship Him also. But, lo, when 
we were come unto Bethlehem, and tarried at the inn 
until nightfall that we might seek the aid of our mysteri- 
ous guide, yon glorious star, [points to star,] there 
appeared unto us, as we sought repose after our journey 
a Celestial Messenger, who bade us return to our homes 
by another way, and in all secrecy. Therefore, prepared 
we to journey unto Tarsus, and there take ship, so have 
sent our goods thither by caravan. Knowest thou not 
some by-way that will lead us to the high-road to the 
coast without again entering the town ; for much fear 
we the crafty king hath spies upon our track? 

[Attendants come from caz'ern, folloived by Mary.] 

Joseph. 
Yea, of such a path have I learned from the shepherds 
of these parts. Suffer me to guide ye to it. 

Melchior. 
We thank thee. [To Mary, hozving.] Farewell, most 
blessed of women. 

Caspar and Balthazar. 
[in turn, also howing.] 
Farewell. 

Mary. 
FareweH, and God speed, noble strangers. 



io6 The Star of Bethlehem 

\Bx\t Joseph hy trail, followed by the Magi and tJieir 

attendants. Mary advances to center. Light is 

thrown upon her. She crosses hands upon her breast 

and raises her eyes.^ 

My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath 
rejoiced in God, my Savior. 

Because He hath regarded the humility of His hand- 
maid; for behold henceforth all generations shall 
call me blessed. 

For He that is mighty hath done great things unto 
me, and holy is His name. 

And His mercy is from generation to generation of 
them that fear Him. 

He hath showed might in His arm. He hath scat- 
tered the proud in the conceit of their hearts. 

He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and 
hath exalted the humble. 

He hath tilled the hungry zvith good things; and the 
rich He hath sent empty away. [She kneels.] 

He hath received Israel, His servant, being mindful 
of His mercy. 

As He spake unto our fathers; to Abraham and to his 
seed forever. 

[Angels, zvithout sing.] 

Chorus of Angels. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, 

And to the Holy Ghost! 

Amen! 



The Star of Bethlehem loy 

SCENE IV. 

Anteroom of He:rod's private apartments in his palace at 
Jerusalem. Arched doorway, center, hung with richly 
embroidered, crimson curtains. There is no furni- 
ture ; but the floor is paved zvith variegated marbles, 
as in Scene II. 

Hkrod discovered, divested of ceremonial robes and 
crozvn, moodily pacing back and forth. 

Hi:rod. 
He shall not escape me ! How can he ? 
[Enter Tollome:o right i.] 

Tollome;o. 
Pheon, the slave, whom thou didst bid me summon to 
thy presence immediately upon his return to the palace 
awaits thy pleasure. 

He:rod. 
Send him hither. 

[ToLLOMEO boivs, and exits. Enter PhEon.] 

Pheon. 
[dropping on knee.] 
All hail, O, King! 

H^rod. 

What of thine errand ? Stay not thy tongue. 

PhKon. 

[striving to steady his voice.] 

I, O King, tracked the strangers thou didst bid me 

follow unto Bethlehem, and kept watch at the inn whilst 

they did tarry within. When night was come, and they 



io8 The Star of Bethlehem 

fared forth through the town, again I tracked them. But 
so great was the multitude gathered in the streets to 
behold the prodigious star that lately appeared in the 
heavens, that I lost sight of them in the press, nor could I 
learn whence went they. Then returned I unto the inn; 
and there was I told that they had departed for their own 
land, but none knew by what way. 

He:rod. 
\Se\zing him by the throat and z'iolcntly shaking him.] 
Fool ! Dolt ! [Releases hold on his throat, and glares 
fiercely into his face.] Thou shalt die the death. 

Pheon. 
[Clasping his hands and groveling before the king.] 
Have pity, O King! Have pity! All that I could did 
I to obey thy commands. Spare me ! Spare me ! 

Hi; ROD. 

I warned thee not to let them elude thee on thy life. 
The word of Herod is sure. [Claps his hands. Enter 
ToLLOMKO.] Summon me the guard, and tarry thou here. 

TOLLOMEO. 

[bozving] 
As thou sayest, O King ! 

[Claps hands. Enter two soldiers.] 
He:rod. 
[to soldiers.] 
Take this blundering fool to the dungeons, and let 
him be tortured to death. 

PhEon. 
[still groveling before the king.] 
Mercy, O King ! Mercy ! 



The Star of Bethlehevi log 

Herod. 
[spuriiino; him ivith foot.] 
Take him away. 
[Soldiers seize PhEon, and start to drag him off right.] 

PhEon. 
[struggling in their grasp.] 
Have mercy, O King! Spare me! Spare me ! Mercy! 

Mercy ! 

[Soldiers drag him off. He continues to cry, zvithout, 
until his voice dies azvay in the distance.] 
Herod. 

[to TOLLOMEO.] 

Take thou a trusty band of thy men, and go unto Beth- 
lehem. There slay every male child of two years and 
younger, within the town, and the country round about. 
See that thou spare not one, or thou shalt die a death of 
torture, even as that wretched slave; and like him shalt 
thou plead in vain for mercy. See thou to it. 

TOLLOMEO. 

Thou shalt be obeyed, O King. 



ACT V. 



SCENE I. 



Interior of Place of Nativity. Night. Walls and roof 
apparently of solid rock. At the extreme right, hack, 
is the manger, a deep niche in the wall, Med with 
strazv, in zvhich may he dimly discerned a form, as 
of a sleeping hahe, wrapped in Oriental drapery. A 
bright white light streams forth from the manger, 
affording the only illnmination. Close heside it is a 
pallet of strazv, on zvhich Mary lies, covered by her 
cloak, apparently in profound slumber. Left, front, 
is another pallet on which Joseph lies, also seemingly 
in a deep sleep. The place has a semblance of com- 
fort, according to Oriental ideas. The pallets are 
covered with Oriental blankets, and provided with 
cushions. Center, back, is a long rug, in the center 
of zvhich are a fezv simple pieces of crockery, plates, 
cups, wine pitcher, etc. 

Light in manger is suddenly extinguished, and after a 
few seconds' interval is thrown on back of scene, 
center, where appears the form of the ArchangeIv 
seen in Prelude. 



11^ The Star of Bethlehem 

Archangel. 

\chants.\ 

Rise, O, Joseph, take the young child and its mother, 

and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee 

word; for Herod will seek the young child to destroy 

him. 

\The Archangel disappears, and light streams out from 
manger again. Joseph springs to his feet.] 

Joseph. 
[clasping his hands.] 
Alas, that the tender babe, and his mother who hath 
not yet recovered her strength, should be obliged to under- 
take this long and wearisome journey across desolate 
desert wastes to a strange and pagan land. But the com- 
mand of the Heavenly Messenger must be obeyed. Mary ! 
Mary ! 

Mary. 
[starting up.] 
Didst thou call me, Joseph ? 

Joseph. 
Yea, Mary. [Mary rises, and approaches him.] Sad 
news have I for thee. This very night must we start on a 
journey to Egypt. For so was I but now commanded by 
an Angel of the Lord, who appeared unto me while I 
slept, and warned me that Herod would seek the Holy 
Child to slay Him. Thinkest thou that thou wilt be able 
to fare thus far in thy feeble state ? 

Mary. 
Yea, my dear husband. The Lord will sustain me. 



The Star of Bethlehem 115 

Glory be unto His holy name ! Let us hasten to depart, 
lest danger draw nigh to the blessed child. 

Joseph. 
Gather together then our belongings here, while I find 
our beast, and prepare him for the journey, and ere many 
moments will we be upon our way. 

\Exit Jose:ph by the door, left. Mary gathers together 
rug, blanket, and cushions on Joseph's pallet, and 
does them up in a neat bundle. She then packs 
articles of crockery carefully in bag. Enter Joseph 
left.] 

Mary. 
Art thou ready to depart, Joseph? 

Joseph. 
Yea, dearest. I have filled our water-skin from the 
spring, that we will not need to tarry by the way. Ere 
dawn will we be far enough on our journey to the south- 
ward to elude the minions of the cruel king. 
[Joseph takes leathern thong, throws it around bundle, 
and ties it securely. Mary goes to manger, takes 
out the gifts of the Magi and comes forzvard zmth 
them.] 

Mary. 
Behold, dear husband, how wonderfully hath the Lord 
provided for the expense of our long journey, and our 
sojourn in a foreign land. Surely these precious gifts 
of the wise men of the East will sell for a sum sufficient 
to maintain us until the angel summon us hither again. 



ii6 The Star of Bethlehem 

Joseph. 
Yea, verily, marvelous are the ways of Jehovah. 
Blessed is the name of the Lord! 

[Mary places the Magis' gifts carefully in hag with 
dishes. Joseph fastens it securely to end of thong, 
slings it and bundle across shoulder, and exits again, 
left. Mary picks up her mantle she has left lying 
on her pallet, and puts it on.'\ 

Mary. 
[Standing still, right center, and crossing hands on breast.] 
For He that is mighty hath done great things unto 

me, and Holy is His name. 
His mercy is from generation to generation of them 

that fear Him. 
He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their 

hearts. 
He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and 
hath exalted the humble. 

[She glances about her.] 
Farwell, humble shelter, more glorious than was ever 
the most gorgeous of kingly palaces. Lo, in future ages 
will all men esteem this the most sacred spot upon the 
whole earth; hallowed as it has been by the advent of 
the Son of the eternal God, the Saviour of the world. 
Farewell, farewell ! Blessed be this lowly abode forever. 
[Enter Joseph.] 

Joseph. 

[standing in doorzvay.] 
Come, Mary. 



The Star of Bethlehem iiy 

Mary. 
Yea, Joseph. 
[She goes up to manger as if to take child. Lights are 
extinguished. Curtain goes up again, showing Mary 
standing by manger with child in her arms 
wrapped in mantle. Stage is darkened again.] 



SCENE II. 

Garden and park of Herod's Country Palace of Hero- 
dium. Broad piazza, with colonnade of Corinthian 
columns, wreathed with roses, right, back of zvhich 
rises facade of palace. The pia.'^za is paved with 
variegated marbles, and a broad flight of marble steps 
conducts to the garden, which is adorned with blos- 
soming roses, and other flowers. Left, is a border 
of tall trees, and in the background is a dense grove, 
showing a glimpse of an ornamental lake to the right. 
Left, center, 3, is a marble bench, set diagonally, 
facing towards right. On couch on piazza, set di- 
agonally, facing tozvards left, Herod is discovered 
reclining on cushions. A deep crimson glozv as of 
a stormy sunset, pervades the scene, and the sky is 
apparently overcast with heavy clouds. Effect of 
clouds rolling slozvly upzvard. 

[A lozv grozvl, as of distant thunder is heard. Herod 
starts up from conch, and glances tozvard back of 
scene.] 



ii8 The Star of Bethlehern 

He:rod. 
[tiirning tozvards audience. \ 
Even as yonder lowering storm-clouds gather in the 
heavens do perils and perplexities beset my reign, I feel 
now drawing towards its close. [He descends steps, and 
paces moodily to and fro. Pauses center. ] Bozved 
down with cares and infirmities rather than years, 
vet can I know no rest. On every hand, unseen 
dangers lurk amid the shadows that overcast my path. 
Warily must I take each step lest the pitfalls mine ene- 
mies are ever digging for my feet engulf me. 
[He crosses to bench, and sits donm. Enter Page from 
palace.] 

Page. 
A courier from Rome awaits thy pleasure, O, King. 

Herod. 
Conduct him hither. 

Page. 
I hasten to obey, O, King. 
[Page makes profound obeisance, and exits from palace. 
Enter Courier of Augustus, in costume of Roman 
soldier, from palace, ivith roll of papyrus in his hand. 
He approaches Herod, doffs helmet, and bozvs. 
Herod rises.] 

Courier. 
In all haste came I from Rome, O, King, to bear unto 
thee this message from Csesar-Augustus, Consul and 
Tribune of the Roman people. 

[Extends scroll.] 



The Star of Bethlehem up 

Herod. 
[taking scroll, and bozving.] 
Thou art most welcome, as envoy of the Master of the 
World. 

[Claps hands. Enter page, who stands still in door of 
palace.] 
Conduct this noble Roman to the apartments of Prince 
Antipater, and command in my name that he be enter- 
tained in all honor, as befits a representative of my lord, 
the most illustrious Csesar- Augustus, Emperor of Rome. 

Page. 
[bowing] 
It shall be as thou commandest, O King. 

[Courier bozvs, and follozvs Page to the palace. Herod 
opens scroll.] 

Herod. 
[reading.] 

To Herod, King of Judea, Greeting: — Having learned 
this day from an unquestioned source that there is even 
now hatching in thy court a plot threatening the liberty 
and the life of thy noble sons, Aristobulus and Alexander, 
for whom, as having been reared and educated under mine 
own eyes here in Rome, I cherish a particular solicitude, 
I hereby summon thee to repair immediately to Rome 
that I may obtain from thee assurance of their safety. 
In this fail not. Hail and farewell ! Caesar. 

Given at Rome, in the year 745 from the foundation of 
the city, and of our empire 44. 



120 The Star of Bethlehem 

[Herod rolls up scroll, placing it in bosom of his robe. 
Deeper grozvls of thunder heard, as if storm were 
approaching. Red light dies out, and stage is dimly 
lighted. ] 

More plots. So Aristobulus and Alexander have com- 
plained of me to Csesar. Well, I will journey unto Rome, 
and make such promises as will satisfy the Emperor. But 
let them beware. An I once have proof that they are 
conspiring against me, not even for their mother's sake 
will I spare them. I will crush them, as I will all others 
that would thwart me, like worms beneath my heel. 
[Rises and paces restlessly back and forth.'] Let 
them beware! Let them beware! [Pauses center.] 
Augustus dare not depose me ; for well he knows, as 
did Antony, that I alone can hold the turbulent peoples 
of these subjugated lands in check, and a great lover of 
peace is he. 

[Another roll of thunder is heard. Enter Tollomeo 
hastily from palace. Hf:ROD sits down on bench, and 
turns to him.] 
Well? 

Tollomeo. 
[bowing] 
I come to report, O, King, the accomplishment of the 
task thou last night didst lay upon me. 

Herod. 
Say on. 

Tollomeo. 
In obedience to thy command, O King, chose I five 



The Star of Bethlehem 121 

hundred of my trustiest men, whom I did promise rich 
reward for compHance with thy will, and even as thou 
didst menance me, threatened with direst penalties of thy 
wrath if they should fail. These mounted I upon our 
swiftest and sturdiest steeds ; so ere the night wore late 
arrived we at Bethlehem. Here, after placing guards at 
all the exits of the town, that none might escape there- 
from, divided I the troops into two bands, one of which 
set I to search all the dwellings of the town, while the 
other ordered I to scour the country, even to the most 
remote crannies of the hills. 

He^rod. 
[muttering to himself.] 
Then must he have perished. How could he have 
escaped ? 

TOLLOMEO. 

Not one escaped, O, King. Verily can I testify that in 
Bethlehem, and the coasts thereof, now remains alive no 
male child of two years or under ; for ere I departed from 
thence with all diligence did I inspect the work of 
slaughter, that obedience to thy commands should in no 
wise fail. 

Herod. 

'Tis well. Didst thou meet with a determined show of 
resistance ? 

TOLLOMEO. 

Yea, O King. In the town, upon our first attack, men 
armed themselves with whatever might serve for weapons, 
and opposed our progress from street to street; and in 
the countrv likewise organized they into armed bands, 



*! 



122 The Star of Bethlehem 

and waged a desperate conflict. Yet was all their valor 
futile ; for the soldiers did ride them down, and trample 
them beneath the hoofs of their steeds, or put them merci- 
lessly to the sword. 

He^rod. 
And what of the women? 

TOLLOMEO. 

They, also, when they found that prayers and tears 
availed not, did fight like tigresses in defense of their 
young; and when their strength failed them, many threw 
themselves upon the sword, or making shields of their 
bodies to protect their little-ones, were slain by the same 
strokes that killed their babes. 

Herod. 
It must have been a scene of havoc. 

ToLLOMEO. 

Yea, O King. Ere we had accomplished our work, the 
homes and streets of Bethlehem were even as shambles; 
and in the country round about the houses and fields were 
strewn with corpses, and swimming in blood. Men, 
exhausted from battle and covered with wounds, glared 
at us with looks of ferocious hatred in their eyes ; and 
frantic women rushed to and fro, wailing, beating their 
breasts, rending their garments, and showering dust upon 
their heads. 

Herod. 

Such scenes are deplorable, but often are they neces- 
sary for the safety of the state. What measures didst 
thou take to preserve the public peace? 



The Star of Bethlehem i2j 

ToLLOMKO. 

A strong force stationed I in the town that there might 
be no uprising there, and gave orders that no organized 
bands be admitted from without. 

He:rod. 
'Tis well. And art thou sure that none of thy men 
gave heed to any plea for mercy? 

TOLLOMEO. 

None, O King. All were slain. Many mothers tried 
to secrete their babes ; but the little ones, knowing not 
how to guard themselves from danger, by their cries be- 
trayed their hiding-places, and were dragged forth, and 
slaughtered. Parents who sought to flee with their babes 
were stopped, and the children snatched from their arms, 
and despatched before their eyes. In the suburbs came 
we upon a child, in costly raiment, in charge of a woman 
of the people, who besought us to spare him, saying he 
was thy son. Hearing this, the soldiers would fain have 
stayed their arms. But I, mindful of thy explicit com- 
mand, didst slay him with my own hand. 

He:rod. 

{Grasping arm of bench convulsively, utters sharp cry of 
pain.] 
Ey! 

[He hoivs his head in his hands and groans.] 

TOLLOMEO. 

What is thy further pleasure, O King ? 



124- The Star of Bethlehem 

Herod. 
[springing to his feet] 
Begone ! Thy face is hateful to me. Such murderous 
instruments as thou kings must perforce make use of 
even while abhorring them [He^ takes heavy purse of 
gold from the bosom of his robe, and tosses it at the feet 
of Toi.lome:o.] With this pay thou thy fiendish cut- 
throats and thyself; and seek no more my presence till 
I summon thee. 

[ToLLOMEO picks up purse, and strides off into palace. 
Herod drops down again on bench.] 
The fresh blood of those slaughtered innocents seems 
smoking from the ground here at my feet, and its odor 
assails my nostrils. 

[Shudders, bows head on hands again, and groans. 
Springs to his feet, and strides to right, front, and 
back, wringing his hands.] 
My own child ! My own child ! I meant not that ! I 
meant not that! 

[Drops dozvn on bench again. Long roll of thunder is 
heard. J'oice of rabbi is heard zmthin the palace, 
reading.] 

Rabbi. 
In Rama was a voice heard, lamentation, weeping, 
and great mourning. Rachel weeping for her children, 
and would not be comforted, because they are not. 
[Another roll of thunder. Herod groans again. QuEEn 
AziLi rushes frantically from palace, in court cos- 
tume, zvith diadem on head, but with hair dishevelled, 
and disordered garments.] 



The Star of Bethlehem 125 

AziLi. 
Jehovah blast thee with His wrath, thou bloody tyrant ! 
^Another roll of thunder.] 

Herod. 
[starting up, in a tone of tenderness] 
What meanest thou, dear wife ? 

AziLi. 
How darest thou call me by the sacred name of wife? 
Monster! Fiend! Why didst thou make me mother of 
thy child, only to slay him in his tender infancy? 

Hi:rod. 
[sternly] 
Restrain thyself, woman. 

AziLi. 
Nay, tyrant of Judea. In this hour from my lips shalt 
thou hear the truth. My words brand thee what thou 
art ; a wretch abhorred of God and man ; one whose bloody 
deeds had shamed the ravening tiger. So vile art thou, 
that even fiends in deepest gulfs of hell might shudder 
at thy name. 

He:rod. 

Silence ! I am the king. 

AziLi. 
Yea, of demons. Let Beelzebub resign his throne, and 
reign thou in his stead. 

He:rod. 
[springing to his feet] 
Nay, King of Judea am I ; and till my last gasp will 



J26 The Star of Bethlehem 

defend my throne 'gainst whomsoever seeks to snatch it 
from me. 

AziLi. 

Yea, a throne secured through wrong and maintained 
by murder. But didst thou fear the puny hands of babes 
would hurl thee from it? 

Herod. 

What's mine is mine, howe'er it was obtained, and I 
will hold it while breath stirs my frame. I fear not gods 
nor men ; but I must needs be wary would I circumvent 
the schemes my foes devise to ruin me. Babes ere now 
have served as nuclei round which hath treason twined. 

AziLi. 

Was that the reason thou didst slay our child? 
Herod. 

Nay, that I meant not ; yet perchance 'twas best. Hast 
thou not heard long since was prophesied unto me a child 
should claim my throne? And two days since appeared 
in Jerusalem three wise men of the East, saying they 
came to seek him who was born King of the Jews. Then 
straightway called I a council of learned doctors of the 
law, who declared unto me that the Messiah, for whom 
Israel looks, must needs be born in Bethlehem. So sent 
I the strangers thither, bidding them find the babe they 
sought, then return to me and reveal the place of his 
abode. They returned not, nor could the spy I set upon 
them discover whence went they. Therefore ordered I 
every male child whose age might serve as pretense that 
he was the Messiah put to the sword. Our son I thought 
not to exempt, so with the rest he perished. 



The Star oj Bethlehem i2y 

AziLi. 
Thou fool! And wouldst thou pit thy petty power 
against Omnipotence? If, indeed, the Messiah hath ap- 
peared, could not Jehovah send one of His angels to 
snatch Him from thy cutthroat's bloody grasp? Do not 
the Scriptures tell how such He sent to deliver the three 
Hebrew children from Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace, 
and shut the mouths of the lions the same cruel king would 
fain have had devour the prophet Daniel ? 

He:rod. 
Tush! But priestly fables. Wherefore, then, did not 
thy great Jehovah save the helpless babes of Bethlehem, 
that even I can pity? 

AziLi. 
Thou pity? Yea, as the lion pities the lamb he slays, 
as the serpent the victim of its fangs. God's ways are 
not as man's, but His vengeance yet shall overtake thee. 

Herod. 
Nay, I slay not without need, I but safeguard my state. 
[He rises. ^ Thy words pierce like daggers. Since Mari- 
anna died no one thus hath dared brave Herod to his 
face. But, there, I pardon thee. Come, my dear wife, 
together let us mourn our hapless son's untimely death. 
[He tries to embrace her. She zvrenches herself from- 
his arms.] 

AziLi. 

Come no more near me. I shudder at thy touch, as at 

some slimy reptile's. Fitly hath Jehovah punished me, 

that lured by the glitter of a crown, I sold myself to thee, 

thou fiend in human form. I'd rather be meanest of slaves, 



128 The Star of Bethlehem 

or homeless beggar starving in the streets, than reign thy 

queen. Take back thy diadem. 

[Tears diadem from her hair, and throzvs it at his feet.] 

He^rod. 

[mockingly] 
Then go, and mourn alone, or join thy wails with Beth- 
lehem's bereaved mothers. 

AziLi. 

Inhuman monster! Yea, we will bewail our murdered 

babes, I and those other mothers. But no more shalt 

thou pollute thy blood-steeped throne. Die, tyrant. 

[She snatches jezvelled dagger from her girdle, and rushes 

upon him. He grasps her zvrists, ivrenches her hand 

free from dagger, and it falls to the ground. He 

places his foot upon it, releases her and drazvs szvord.] 

AziLi. 
[tearing open the bosom of her robe] 
Strike ! Strike ! Slay me, since I have failed in killing 
thee. Slaughter the mother as thou didst the child. 

Herod. 
[sheathing his szvord] 
Nay, even as I told thee, I slay not uselessly. Hyrcanus 
and Aristobulus would fain have seized my crown, there- 
fore them I slew. Marianna conspired against my life ; 
and worse, did torture me with sight of love turned to 
hatred. Her, likewise, did I slay. But thou I love not, 
and thy words of hate can have no power to hurt me. 
Thou hast no following to make thee dangerous to the 
realm. Begone in peace. 
[Sits down on bench] 



The Star of BethUhem i2g 

AziLi. 
[throwing up her arms'] 
Hear me, Lord God of Israel! Hear me in the name 
of Bethlehem's sorrowing mothers. Pour thou out upon 
this bloody tyrant the vials of Thy wrath. Let all his 
schemes be foiled. Let all who own his blood make him 
a mockery. Let his name be a byword and a hissing on 
men's lips for untold ages. Send down upon him plagues. 
Let his frame be racked with tortures like unto those 
that he on others hath inflicted. Let his bones rot. Let 
his flesh breed sores, more loathly and more foul than 
leprosy. Let worms devour his body while he lives, and 
after death doom Thou his soul to hell. Hear me. Thou 
great Jehovah ! Lord God Almighty, hear me ! Amen ! 
Amen ! Amen ! 
[A great peal of thunder, and vivid flash of lightning, 

answer her. She rushes frantically into the palace. 

Herod cowers down on bench and shudders, as if 

terrified, then springs to his feet.] 

Herod. 
Jehovah! What have I to do with Jehovah? Let 
priests prate of the power of Israel's God. I am King, 
by my own might and the power of heathen Rome, that 
knows naught of Jehovah. Him I defy. 
[Another roll of thunder and flash of lightning. Stage 
is darkened, and spirits of Hyrcanus and Aristo- 
bulus appear right center, back, illumined with a 
ghastly, blue light.] 
Back, phantoms, to your graves. Ye plotted treason. 
and ye got your dues. 



I JO The Star of Bethlehem 

[Spirit of Marianna appears center. Herod stretches 
out his arms tozvard her and cries out in a voice of 
anguish.] 
IMarianna ! Marianna! 
[The first spirits glide over to center beside Marianna, 
and all three point at Herod. He drops dozmi again 
on seat, and crouches there for a moment as if over- 
come with terror, then springs up again.] 
This is but phantasy. Or stay, perchance it is a trick- 
devised by my foes to fright me into madness. An that 
be so. with mine own hand 1*11 slay these mummers. [He 
drazvs his sword.] 

It is already wet with blood. 
[Wipes blade 0)i fringe of his sash. Szuord drops from 
his hand, and he sinks doz^'n on bench.. Clasps his 
throat zvith his hand. \ 
Blood! Blood! I choke with blood! 
[Gau.'je curtain drops in front of spirits, and they disap- 
pear. Sound as of a rushing zvind is heard, and then 
of zvailing zvomeu. Herod repeats in a hoarse zvhis- 
per.] 
"In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and 
weeping and great mourning. Rachel weeping for her 
children, and would not be comforted because they are 
not." 

[Shrieks and groans, as of some one under torture, min- 
gled zjith cries of ^' Mercy! Mercy!" Herod again 
whispers] 
That was FMieon's voice. 



The Star of Bethlehem ijr 

A great voice is heard from above saying, "Herod thou 
art accursed/' A terrific peal of thunder, and flash 
of lightning. He^rod starts to his feet.] 
The wrath of Jehovah is upon me ! 

Falls on his face. Curtain is raised at back, showing 
tableau of Flight into Egypt. Mar\' seated on don- 
key, a child in her arms, wrapped in her mantle, and 
Joseph zvalking by her side, supported by staff. 
All is illumined with a bright goidoi light.] 



DEC 23 IS?' 



